Day 4 : Monday 7 November

Day 4 : Monday 7 November

Location libraries on the national agenda - John Tsebe

John informed us about legislation concerning the Library and Information Services (LIS), he referred to the legislative framework. Background was given on the National Council of Library and Information Services (NCLIS) and the act. He spoke about the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC) and the National Council of Library and Information Services (NCLIS), and their roles were outlined. He shared with the group NCLIS's strategic direction regarding vision and mission. He stressed the importance.

Leading LIASA & LIASA leading the profession – Ujala Satgoor

She passionately spoke about the association and how important it is for librarianship in the country. She also passionately pleaded for librarians to take part in the activities of LIASA and to advocate the importance of the association.

We should ask ourselves: “what can we do for LIASA and not what LIASA can do for us”.

In my first years of student life and also in the beginning of my career, I have been a member of SAIBI. I even help organize one of their conferences. Later I felt disappointed in this professional association.  So I have been inactive in our professional association for many years. Now, hearing about the huge role LIASA plays in the profession, and its vision, I realized one should have passion for you professional association.

Useful website: http://www.liasa.org.za

International vs African librarianship – Dr Buhle Mbambo - Thata

Dr Buhle spoke about the difference between European libraries, that mostly supports reading and leisure, and the African Library that is an extension of the school environment. It is a learning centre, where indigenous knowledge should also be included. She also talked about the different international library organizations like IFLA, and how we should participate, by conference attendance and the delivery of papers. She also touched on the preparation to become a library leader in Africa. Hard work and good characteristics is needed. She reminded me of my mother by emphasizing the importance of your good name …

The practicing next generation librarian - Rene Schoombee

This session was practical and informal, an overview of her own experiences as the next generation – to move out of your comfort zone and take the chances. She informed us on how to become a library advocate. To use all opportunities available to you and to become the best you can be. She stressed the fact that you should be happy in your work. You need passion and creativity, not only for yourself but also for your clients and community.

Rene  mention certain values that we need to keep : completing tasks, keeping promises, being positive, sharing knowledge and being loyal.

She also mentioned that we must be passionate about our profession, be enthusiastic and positive about being a Librarian, join  our library association , offer our services to the community and accept invitations to deliver presentations and develop and empower ourselves by applying for grants and scholarships. One of my own objectives is to encourage my colleagues to publish.

Pamoja: group vs team dynamics – Ujala Satgoor

The group was devided into 4 groups. Each country represented a specific colour and in each country the team members were assigned a role, e.g. country representatives, ambassadors and gatekeepers. The currency used was called Mojas. The different countries had to design their own identity, and develop their country’s literacy by universities, public and community libraries, etc.

Although hesitant at first, the game evolved into a cut-throat business of bankers, donors and eager investors. Opportunities, development and even help to those less fortunate were the order of the day. Role play and fun showed us some qualities in ourselves that we were not aware of. We moved out of our comfort zones without even noticing it.

Campbell Leadership Description Tool (Part II) – Ujala Satgoor

We looked at developmental strategies and what our personal action plan will contain. An important element here was that your strategy must be a plan in how to become a different person. To improve yourself, especially in the areas you need to develop or grow.