The National Library of South Africa (NLSA) hosted the launch of a special exhibition titled “Stories Around the Fire: Reclaiming Heritage, Igniting Futures” at its Cape Town Campus on Thursday, 23 April 2026.

This exhibition formed part of the NLSA’s broader programme commemorating World Book and Copyright Day. The exhibition was aimed at highlighting storytelling as a powerful vehicle for knowledge-sharing, cultural preservation, and social cohesion.

Stories Around the Fire is a compelling showcase of indigenous storytelling, oral traditions, and South Africa’s rich documentary heritage. The exhibition also underscores the critical role of libraries and strategic partnerships in promoting literacy, preserving heritage, and strengthening community engagement.

Delivering the keynote address at the official launch, NLSA Board Chairperson, Mr Bernardo Maralack, underscored the continued relevance of indigenous storytelling in contemporary society. “This exhibition must remind us that indigenous storytelling and oral traditions are not remains of the past, but vibrant, living expressions of who we are as South Africans. They continue to shape our understanding of ourselves, our communities and our place in the world.”

Mr Maralack further highlighted the importance of preserving these traditions through institutions such as the NLSA, noting that libraries serve not only as repositories of books but also as custodians of the nation’s collective memory and cultural heritage.

Through this exhibition, the NLSA continues to demonstrate its commitment to protecting the country’s documentary heritage while creating spaces where stories from the past can inspire the future.