My Experience as a Principal Librarian at the Library Circulation Services

By Celeste Johns

A Transformative Journey

Over the years, my role as Head of Circulation has undergone a profound transformation. We have evolved from traditional gatekeepers of information into multifaceted professionals who play an integral role in supporting students' academic and personal well-being. This shift reflects the growing recognition of the diverse challenges faced by students and other users in today’s academic landscape, including mental health concerns, academic stress, peer pressure, and the relentless drive to succeed.

Supporting Students Beyond Academics
At the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), we understand that students often require support that extends beyond the academic resources we offer. One of the ways we address this need is by employing student assistants to work after hours in our libraries. This initiative ensures that essential services remain available to students during non-traditional hours, while also offering our student assistants valuable opportunities to develop work-integrated skills and responsibilities. This teaches them values such as accountability and responsibility, preparing them for the world of work.

In my role as Head of Circulation Services, I strive to create a nurturing and empowering environment where students feel supported, valued, and equipped to manage their dual responsibilities as learners and library assistants.

Integrating Emotional Support

In recent years, the integration of counseling techniques into the librarian’s role has become increasingly important. By developing supportive programs and offering a listening ear, we provide both academic resources and emotional support to students. This dual role contributes significantly to the overall health, well-being, and success of the student population, particularly those who work closely with us.

Navigating Challenges

However, with this evolution come challenges. As librarians, we must navigate the delicate balance between providing empathetic support and understanding our limitations. We are not mental health professionals, and it is crucial to establish boundaries while fostering collaboration with campus counseling services. Developing clear guidelines and referral processes ensures that students receive the comprehensive care they need without overstepping our roles.

Creating an Inclusive Library Environment

Creating a library environment that is inclusive, safe, and supportive has been a priority for me. By addressing the personal and professional needs of our student assistants, we can enhance their productivity, improve their mental well-being, and enrich their overall university experience. Libraries are no longer just academic spaces—they are hubs of community engagement, understanding, and empowerment.

Community engagement.

A Space for Guidance and Support
In my experience, students often seek guidance not only for academic challenges but also for personal struggles. I have had countless one-on-one interactions where students have confided in me about issues ranging from stress and homesickness to financial hardship. Often, they simply need someone to listen to them—a comforting presence that reminds them of home. The library should be a space that feels like a home away from home, and I see my role as not only being a librarian but also as a mentor and, for some, a maternal figure offering reassurance and practical advice.

Connecting Students to Resources

When I am unable to address a student's needs directly, I always ensure they are connected to the right resources. For instance, if a student is experiencing hunger, I refer them to the Student Representative Council (SRC) to access food parcels or vouchers. If they face emotional or psychological challenges beyond my capacity, I encourage them to seek help from on-campus counseling services. My priority is to ensure that every student feels supported and empowered to overcome their challenges.

An Evolving Role
As a Circulation Librarian, I remain open to evolving and adapting to the ever-changing needs of our students. It is our responsibility as librarians to continue building spaces that are welcoming, inclusive, and conducive to personal growth. Libraries are no longer just places for books and academic resources; they are havens of safety and support, reflecting the broader needs of the students we serve. Together, we can ensure that every student finds the tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to thrive during their academic journey and beyond.

Reference:

https://medium.com/everylibrary/caring-for-the-whole-student-how-campus-librarians-provide-mental-health-support-fb4a6d7e6796/(accessed24November 2024).           

 

https://witness.co.za/news/2021/04/28/food-parcels-for-ukzn-students-as-they-wait-for-their-allowances-20210428/( accessed 26 November 2024).

 

 

The heritage of the University of KwaZulu-Natal

 

                                                          By Senzo Mkhize

Historical background

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has a rich and evolving heritage, tracing its origins back to the early 20th century when the foundations of universities in South Africa were first established. The roots of UKZN lie in the Natal University College, founded in 1909, which became the University of Natal in 1949. This institution served as the foundation of what is now the University of KwaZulu-Natal, making UKZN the product of more than a century of educational history in the region.

In 2004, UKZN was formed through the merger of the University of Durban-Westville and the University of Natal. The University of Durban-Westville, established during the apartheid era, was designed to provide higher education to the Indian community, while the University of Natal predominantly catered to the white population. This division of educational services was part of the broader system of racial segregation that characterized apartheid South Africa.

With the advent of democracy in 1994 and the subsequent abolition of apartheid, the South African government undertook significant reforms to create a more inclusive and non-racial society. One of the major steps in this process was the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville in 2004, reflecting the government’s commitment to dismantling the remnants of apartheid. This merger brought together students and staff from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds, marking the creation of a truly non-racial institution that is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and social justice in higher education.

Today, UKZN stands as a symbol of transformation in South African higher education. It continues to build on its legacy of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and social responsibility, offering world-class education and engaging in cutting-edge research that addresses both local and global challenges.

After the merger, all libraries and special collections of these two institutions were integrated under one management to form the University of KwaZulu-Natal Libraries and Special Collections. The university has four Special Collections, the Killie Campbell Africana Library in Musgrave, the Gandhi-Luthuli Documentation Centre in Westville, the Centre for Africa Literary Studies and the Alan Paton Centre and the Struggle Archives in Pietermaritzburg. There are other special collections like the Howard College Special Collection, Herbarium Collection at Life Sciences and the University Archives in Pietermaritzburg. Proposal has been made to form the South African Music Archives as an additional special collection.

These Special Collections have diverse collections of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, archives, artefacts, ephemera, and digital records which are considered unique, valuable, and fragile, offering a wide range of primary source materials for research across various subjects like history, anthropology, politics, music, religion, literature, and culture; often reflecting diverse perspectives and experiences depending on the collection's focus. The collections are well preserved and conserved for the future generations. All materials have been processed and are discoverable in the University of KwaZulu-Natal Library Website through browsing each special collections’ website.    

The Gandhi-Luthuli Documentation Centre is a distinguished cultural and historical institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse and multifaceted heritage of South Africa. Situated in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, this museum and library play a vital role in commemorating the contributions and experiences of South Africa’s Indian community, with a special focus on the province of KwaZulu-Natal, which has played a significant part in the history of Indian migration to South Africa.

The Centre holds an invaluable collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and museum artefacts that span across significant historical periods, particularly the colonial and apartheid eras. These collections were carefully curated and amassed by a variety of collectors, donors, and activists, including many notable figures within the Indian community, throughout the 20th century. Among the most treasured items in the Centre’s collection are the ship lists of the indentured laborers who were brought from India to South Africa in 1860 to work on the sugar plantations. This document remains a key historical record of the origins and early lives of many families who contributed to the shaping of South Africa’s socio-economic landscape.

One of the most valuable recent additions to the Centre’s collection is the Dr. Phyllis Naidoo Collection. Dr. Naidoo was a renowned activist, member of the African National Congress (ANC), and a prominent figure in the fight against apartheid. She was also a former student and staff member of both the University of Durban-Westville and the University of Natal. The collection includes personal papers, letters, photographs, and other materials related to Dr. Naidoo’s political work, offering insight into her life and contributions to the liberation struggle in South Africa.

The Alan Paton Centre and the Struggle Archives was named after a renowned author of “Cry, the beloved country” and anti-Apartheid activist, Mr Alan Paton. Alan Paton was a leader of the Liberal Party of South Africa, which was active from 1953 to 1968. The material comprises the original manuscripts of Mr Alan Paton and individual donors and organisation which were involved in the struggle against Apartheid in the Natal Midlands from 1948 to 1990. The collection was donated to the then University of Natal by Alan Paton’s wife, Mrs Anne Paton. In addition to these collections there is a huge collection of books donate to the centre by the Natal Society Foundation.

 The Centre for African Literary Studies Collection was established to house all publications on African literature. The idea was to support the University of KwaZulu-Natal’ vison to be “the Premier University of African Scholarship” and the “University of Choice” in African Studies. Some prominent publications focused on African literature includes Journal of African Studies, Research in African literatures, Journal of African Cultural Studies and The African Writers. Other special collections of interest include a huge collection of books published by African writers, this includes literatures from other countries of Africa. The collection was donated by former University of KwaZulu-Natal academic, Professor Bernth Lindfors. Lindfors is based in the United State of America. This collection has been conscientiously developed over the decades since then to include all African topics which may be of interest to researchers. 

The Killie Campbell Africana Library well known as the Killie Campbell Collections was established by the Campbell family in 1914. The Campbell family was one of the British settlers who came to South Africa in 1850 through Joseph Byrne Immigration Scheme. The original house of the family was at Umdloti near uMhlanga Rocks then they moved to Durban Musgrave area where they build their house called “ Mucleneuk”. The house laid the foundation for the present-day Mashu Museum of Ethnology, Killie Campbell Africana library, the William Campbell Furniture & Picture Collection and the Jo Thorpe Collection. The library and museum comprise a rich variety of rare Africana books, manuscripts, artworks, and museum artefacts, mostly related to southern Africa, particularly the eastern region. The materials were collected by Dr Killie Campbell and her brother William WAC Campbell. The collections were bequeathed to the then University of Natal in 1965 after the death of Killie Campbell and her bother William Campbell. 

Some of the most notable collections donated to the Killie Campbell Africana Library are: The James Stuart manuscripts includes a large collection of notebooks reflecting the work done by James Stuart in recording the oral history of the Zulu people in KwaZulu-Natal and the neighbouring tribes. There are now 6 volumes of James Stuart Archives written by former UKZN history lecturer, Professor John wright. Professor Wright consulted the original manuscripts when he wrote his volumes. The E.G. Malherbe collections which was donated to KCAL by Professor Malherbe who was a   former Principal of the University of Natal. The importance of these collections is measured by the high number of users who visit the library to use them. In addition, the new collections added to the museum are African Masks collection and the Human Right paintings.  

Preservation and conservation of the collections

All Special Collections of the University of KwaZulu-Natal continues to collect, arranges, preserve, conserve, and make available records of enduring historic value that support the information needs of the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s faculty, students, academics and the general public. Currently, the Special Collections has embarked on a massive digitisation of rare Africana collections, this includes the photographs and the manuscripts. Materials are digitized on DISA website for preservation and access

The digitization project is not only focused on scanning materials but also on developing a user-friendly online platform that will serve as a comprehensive resource for researchers, students, and the general public. By using advanced technologies, the Special Collections aims to make its collections more discoverable and accessible at any time and from anywhere in the world. This also includes plans for interactive digital exhibits and virtual tours that will further enhance the public’s experience and engagement with the Special Collections.

Marketing our Special Collections

·       Online marketing; we are focusing on highlighting the uniqueness value of our collections by digitising and making our collections easily accessible through individual special collections’ websites and DISA website.  Adverting our events online and conduct online annual lectures and other events. We also promote online exhibitions to showcase our special collections.

·       Collaborating with different institutions and organisations, history societies to use our special collections to do their events and to promote our special collections to their clients.

·       Partner with schools to offer tours and presentations to students on using special collections for their researches.

·       Outreach to promote our special collections; partners with local museums, libraries and other heritage institutions to promote our collections-through attending their events or assisting in training their staff.

·       Host both online and in-person events to promote our special collections, e.g. annual lectures, book launches, meetings, film shootings etc.

Challenges

Preserving UKZN Special Collections faces numerous challenges, including climate change, lack of proper equipment for digitisation, insufficient funding, lack of space, pest and mold infestation, lack of air-conditioners, shortage of staff, obsolescence of technology, all of which can lead to the loss or permanent damage to our unique and valuable collections. 

However, the UKZN Library management is doing all it can to save these treasures of our university and KZN in particular. Attempts are being made to expand the centres and to replace outdated equipment, hire contract staff to assist with preservation and conservation and speed up the digitisation of fragile collections.

References

Alan Paton Centre & Struggle Archives’ pamphlet

Buthelezi, V. Dr Killie Campbell1 and her collections: Challenging the colonial notions of museums displays and representation. Unpublished paper, Campbell Collections.

Buthelezi, V; Cele, M and Krige, E Treasures of the South: The history and holdings of Campbell Collections. Seminar, June 1, 2011, available at https://phambo.wiser.org.za/seminars/buthelezi/2011.html

Gandhi Luthuli& Documentation Centre’ pamphlet

Centre for African Literary Studies’ pamphlet

Herd, N Killie’s Africa: The Achievement of Dr Killie Campbell. Pietermaritzburg: Blue Crane, 1982.

Killie Campbell Manuscripts

KwaZulu-Natal Archives and Records Services preservation and conservation pamphlet

Muir, S, Killie Campbell Africana Library, William Campbell Museum and Mushu Museum.

The Special Collections of the University of KwaZulu Natal’ pamphlet

The Future of Academic Libraries: Adapting to the Digital Age and Beyond

By Ashika Pramlal

Traditionally seen as the heart of knowledge and research on university campuses, academic libraries have long been the bastions of printed books, scholarly journals, and quiet study spaces. But in today’s increasingly digital world, their role is evolving in ways that promise to reshape the very essence of academic inquiry, collaboration, and community engagement.

Digital Transformation: A New Era of Access

One of the most significant changes in academic libraries is the shift from physical collections to digital resources. While libraries have always been pioneers in information organization and dissemination, the scale and speed of this transformation are staggering.

Digital collections, e-books, open-access journals, and online databases are commonplace. For instance, instead of physically storing entire journals or books, libraries have shifted to hosting digital archives or providing access to large-scale databases like ScienceDirect, ProQuest, or Google Scholar. This transition allows researchers to access vast amounts of information from anywhere, at any time.

But it's not just about convenience; the digital era has also created a paradigm shift in how knowledge is created and shared. Academic libraries are no longer just knowledge repositories; they are now key players in facilitating open access and ensuring that research is freely available to the global academic community. Open-access publishing, where scholars can share their work without paywalls, is gaining momentum, and libraries are advocating for this model.

Data Management: The New Frontier

Data will likely be as important as the printed word in the future. As universities and researchers generate vast amounts of data, academic libraries increasingly become the centers for managing, storing, and preserving that data.

Research data management (RDM) is an emerging area where libraries play a pivotal role. Libraries provide the infrastructure and expertise to ensure that researchers can store, organize, and share their data in ways that comply with ethical standards, legal requirements, and best practices. As open data becomes more ingrained in academia, libraries are working to provide services like data curation, metadata management, and even data visualization, empowering researchers to make their datasets more accessible and valuable.

In addition, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in research creates new opportunities and challenges for data management. Libraries are increasingly investing in AI technologies to help researchers analyze large datasets, automate repetitive tasks, and generate new insights from data. As the importance of big data and AI-driven research grows, the role of libraries in facilitating access to and understanding of these technologies will be critical.

 

The Library as a Learning Hub

In addition to being repositories of knowledge, academic libraries are increasingly becoming central hubs for learning and teaching. As universities embrace new education models, such as blended learning, flipped classrooms, and online courses, libraries are evolving to support diverse learning styles and needs.

Academic libraries are expanding their role in curriculum support by providing resources and helping faculty integrate technology and digital tools into their teaching. Libraries are developing services that assist in course design, research assistance, and the creation of open educational resources (OERs), allowing faculty to share materials with their students freely.

Moreover, libraries are adopting technologies that facilitate personalized learning. Adaptive learning systems, learning management software, and other digital tools are being integrated into library spaces, giving students access to tailored educational experiences. These innovations mean that the library is no longer just a place to borrow books; it's an integral part of the academic ecosystem where learning is facilitated, personalized, and supported.

Sustainability and Preservation: Balancing Digital and Physical Collections

While digital transformation is paramount, physical collections will only partially disappear. Libraries are focusing on the sustainability of both digital and physical collections. The future library will be an expertly curated mix of print materials, physical artifacts, and digital assets.

There’s also a strong emphasis on preservation—not just physical books, but digital content. Digital preservation is crucial for ensuring digital resources, including web content and electronic publications, remain accessible long-term. Developing digital repositories, archives, and preservation strategies will ensure that even as technology evolves, knowledge remains available for future generations.

Conclusion

The future of academic libraries is bright, dynamic, and full of exciting possibilities. Far from becoming obsolete in the face of digital technologies, libraries are transforming into multi-functional, digital-first institutions that continue to support research, education, and community engagement. Whether managing data, facilitating collaboration, or serving as hubs of innovation and learning, academic libraries will remain indispensable to the educational experience.

As technology continues to evolve, so will the ways libraries adapt to meet the needs of students, researchers, and faculty. The future is one of integration—of technology with tradition, collaboration with knowledge, and adaptability with leadership. The academic library of tomorrow is not just a place for books but a gateway to the limitless potential of learning and discovery.

 

Reflections on the Alan Paton Literary Festival held at UKZN (PMB) on the 15th October 2024

By Shorba Harkhu

It was a privilege to attend the Alan Paton Literary Festival. The line-up of speakers included DavidAttwell and Ashwin Desai, both of whom are authors and academics, Richard Conyngham, also an author, Michael Deeb, a Dominican priest, and Darryl Earl David, author and academic, as well as curator and master of ceremonies (MC) of this festival. There were other speakers but I attended the first half of the event only.

David Attwell presented the keynote address entitled The dialogic Paton: Cry, the beloved country before 1948. Paton’s famous book is one of my best reads and Attwell’s narration of excerpts of the book reminded me again of how deeply I felt for Stephen Khumalo, the main character in this book.

Ashwin Desai is such a dynamic and outspoken speaker. When he talks, one is forced to listen, and it feels as if the whole room reverberates with his magnetic personality. The MC described him as an academic with a literary heart. His talk was entitled Does Alan Paton still speak to SA in 2024? And his answer was in the affirmative.

Richard Conyngham is the author of All rise:  resistance, rebellion and revolt in South Africa. His talk focused on his book and the reason for using such graphic illustrations to depict the narratives in it. Richard is the son of John Conyngham who was a one-time editor of the Witness, and who currently resides in Mexico.

Michael Deeb spoke about the book Reluctant prophet, of which he is one of the contributing editors. The book is a collection of essays in honour of theologian and political activist Albert Nolan.

Darryl Earl David, a former UKZN academic is so passionate about everything literary. And this came across clearly in his talk Writers houses of Pietermaritzburg. He went around photographing the houses of famous authors such as Alan Paton, David Attwell, Colin Gardner and Kobus Moolman. David mentioned that Paton’s home is now in such a dilapidated state that he was ashamed to whip out his camera and take a photo of it. David also made mention of two relatively unknown writers from Edendale, namely H.I.E.C. Dhlomo, who was the first African creative writer in English and his younger brother R. R. R. Dhlomo, who was the first African to write an English fiction novella. Unfortunately, David couldn’t locate their house, but luckily a member of the audience was willing to assist. It goes to show that literary festivals are not only about the written word but also of connecting and networking.

As academic librarians, we get so detached from the literary world. It’s all about the statistics and the information retrieval figures. Maybe we should also try to inculcate in students the joys and wonders of reading.

I left the festival feeling enriched, and thinking that this certainly wouldn’t be the last one I will be attending.

                  The posh Council Chamber was the venue for the festival

Darryl Earl David in the NYC jacket

  Ashwin Desai in the orange shirt