Open Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8H00 - 17H00, Wed: 9H00 - 17H00, Fri: Closed for Stocktaking
Information Access Services
Reference
Reading Rooms
Photocopying & Scanning
Ask the Librarian
Inter-library loans
User services available on Pretoria Campus
Reference Library
You'll find research materials, computers for accessing online databases and the NLSA's collection and even assistance retrieving materials from the stacks.
Reading Room
This collection is kept on open shelves and users are able to browse and retrieve books. Seating space on the ground floor and the mezzanine level is available.
Official Publications Depository
NLSA offers access to South African government publications, from national and provincial gazettes, legislation, parliamentary debates (Hansard), and legal reports.
Map Library
This section houses the NLSA’s map collection. Only staff members are allowed access for retrieving and shelving this material. The map collection can be accessed through the Reference Library.
Microfilm Room
The Microfilm Room provides microfiche and microfilm reader printers for researchers to access and convert text materials into an easily readable format. Staff are available to train users on equipment operation.
Discussion Rooms
NLSA Library users working in teams are catered for. A discussion room is available both in the Reading Room and Reference Library and can be booked in advance at the Information Desk.
User services available on Cape Town Campus
Reference Library
You'll find research materials, computers for accessing online databases and the NLSA's collection and even assistance retrieving materials from the stacks.
Reading Room
This collection is kept on open shelves and users are able to browse and retrieve books. Seating space on the ground floor and the mezzanine level is available.
Official Publications Depository
NLSA offers access to South African government publications, from national and provincial gazettes, legislation, parliamentary debates (Hansard), and legal reports.
Photocopying Room
Text Retrieval and Reading Room staff assist users in making photocopies within the limits of the Copyright Act.
Special Collections
The Special Collections section provides reference and retrieval services for a variety of materials, including rare books, manuscripts, maps, and iconography. Many of the items are indexed online and can be accessed via the OPAC. All items are housed in the Abe Bailey Reading Room. Please make an appointment as some items are stored off-site. Special care is taken when handling materials, so only pencils or laptops may be used for taking notes.
Reader Services
The Reader Services section at the National Library in Cape Town facilitates access to the library's extensive collection of materials. The Reading Room assists users in locating and retrieving materials, while the Photocopy section provides duplication services within copyright guidelines. Additionally, Reader Services handles intercampus loan requests from the Pretoria Campus, ensuring access to a wider range of resources.
Information Access Services (IAS) provides access to the NLSA’s collections and resources. IAS does this by
- Providing reference and information services to the public.
- Providing access to the NLSA’s digital collections.
- Facilitating interlibrary loans.
- Providing training and education on information literacy.
IAS plays a vital role in ensuring that the NLSA’s collections are accessible to everyone. Its work is essential for research, education, and developing a knowledge-based society.