South African Library Week (16-22 March 2026)

 

By Shorba Harkhu and Shanitha Bhim

UKZN libraries celebrated South African Library Week (SALW) from March 16–22. The theme for this year was "Reclaiming Knowledge, Empowering Futures"

SALW was initiated in 2001 by the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA). This initiative highlights libraries as crucial centres for preserving knowledge, bridging digital divides, and empowering communities through access to information and lifelong learning.

During the week of SALW, 16–22 March, Cecil Renaud Library in Pietermaritzburg was buzzing with activity. The programme was organised by Jillian Viljoen, a subject librarian from Cecil Renaud Library. The programme included guest speakers from various departments across campus, as well as from other sectors of the community. Competitions were held during the week to assess participants’ knowledge of the library’s services and online resources.

One of the guest speakers was Dr Siyanda Kheswa from the Department of Information Studies at UKZN, who discussed the importance of libraries and how they can support the writing and publishing of academic articles. Another interesting speaker was Mariam Jassat from the Student Support Services, College of Humanities at UKZN. She encouraged students to visit the student counselling centres if they were experiencing any difficulties, as these centres can help them care for their inner well-being, which is essential for personal growth and self-development.

 Many survivors of gender-based violence endure their experiences in silence because of fear, stigma, and insufficient support. Elton Adkins spoke to students on this issue, highlighting that most victims of gender-based violence are women. Sphamandla Gwamanda from the UKZN Disability Support Unit (DSU) gave a very interesting talk on the support services available to students with disabilities. Among the services offered by the DSU is support for blind and partially sighted students, including assistance with using JAWS screen readers, enlarged text, and scanning materials.

        

                                 Staff members wearing Bridgeton-inspired            Dr Siyanda Kheswa addressing students

                                  masks added a theatrical flair to the week’s

                                   celebrations.

                         

                                          Display from Shuter & Shooter                     Quiz winners with their goodie bags

                               

                                                   Elton Adkins from Unite Against                     Sphamandla Gwamanda from the 

                                        Gender Based Violence                                    Disability Support Unit

      References

• Notes on talks provided by Shanitha Bhim
• Photos supplied by Jillian Viljoen and Shanitha Bhim