Librarians Day Celebration: Reflecting on 30 Years of Democracy in the South African Library and Information Sector
The National Library of South Africa (NLSA) in partnership with the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) will host an event to celebrate Librarians Day on 10 July 2024 at the NLSA Pretoria campus. Librarians Day is dedicated to recognising and honouring the invaluable contributions of librarians and library workers in promoting literacy, education, and access to information in South Africa.
It is also an opportunity to highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the sector, including the need for continuous professional development, resource allocation, and adaptation to the digital age. It underscores the importance of librarians as educators, information specialists, and community leaders who contribute to the intellectual and cultural growth of society.
The celebration will be conducted in a hybrid format, allowing individuals who may not be able to attend physically to participate virtually in the proceedings. This year’s event is of great importance as we reflect on 30 years of democracy and the transformative impact it has had on library and information services.
The event will feature insightful discussions with a panel discussion session with prominent figures in the Library and Information Services sector. We will explore the progress made over the past three decades, celebrate the achievements, and address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Objective
The primary objective of the celebration is to facilitate a reflective dialogue on the evolution of libraries and information services in South Africa over the past three decades. Specifically, the discussion will focus on:
1. Pre-democratic Challenges and Achievements: Exploring the landscape of libraries before the democratic era, highlighting challenges faced, and identifying successful initiatives.
2. Challenges and Achievements of the First 30 Years: Assessing the progress made, acknowledging ongoing challenges, and celebrating accomplishments during the initial three decades of democracy.
3. Prospects: Envisioning the future trajectory of the South African Library and Information sector, identifying emerging challenges, and charting a course for continued growth and relevance.
“As we celebrate this day, let us honour the hard work and dedication of librarians and all information professionals who have been at the forefront of promoting information literacy. They have, and continue to, play an important role in ensuring that libraries remain relevant in this ever-changing society. I call on all South Africans to join in celebrating the achievements of our Library and Information Services sector and to reflect on the important role that libraries and librarians play in our democracy,” Mr Kepi Madumo, National Librarian and CEO of the NLSA.
For more information on the Librarians Day, please visit the NLSA website: www.nlsa.ac.za
Ends
Media enquiries:
Ms. Jolene Bhadais
Director: Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations
064 625 7281 or jolene.bhadais@nlsa.ac.za