The City of Johannesburg’s Libraries, in partnership with the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA), held an inspiring seminar at the Brixton Recreation Centre on 5 March 2025.
The event aimed to empower library staff, including qualified librarians and those aspiring to join the profession, while highlighting the role of LIASA as a pivotal professional body.
Ben Ramela, Deputy Director of Libraries, warmly welcomed attendees, including representatives from academic institutions, the LIASA Board, and online participants. “We hope that this seminar will benefit not only CoJ staff but anyone attending online or those who wish to study librarianship or join LIASA.”
This seminar underscored the importance of educating library staff about training opportunities, formal qualifications, and support structures available to them. Joining professional bodies like LIASA plays a critical role in this journey, offering librarians a platform to stay informed about sector developments and the job market.
Representatives from several academic institutions, including Unisa, the University of Zululand, the University of Fort Hare, and the University of Limpopo shared insights into their librarianship qualifications and new developments.
Unisa, represented by Professor Lorette Jacobs, detailed the structure of their library science degree, registration processes, and recent updates to their curriculum. She highlighted the introduction of additional modules, such as entrepreneurship, to foster self-employability among graduates.
University of Limpopo’s Professor Lefose Makgahlela, accompanied by 20 master’s students, emphasised their focus on producing versatile librarians equipped to thrive in any environment. He also stressed the importance of promoting reading in indigenous languages.
LIASA Board representatives provided practical guidance on registering for LIASA membership, associated fees, and the steps to achieve professional librarian status. Their presentation reinforced the value of being part of a professional body that supports continuous learning and career advancement.
The seminar featured an interactive Q&A session, with most questions focusing on master’s degree registration processes and the need for academic institutions to provide clear guidelines and support for students requiring in-service training. These discussions highlighted the growing demand for structured pathways to professional development in librarianship.
Adding a cultural dimension to the event, Joburg Tourism treated LIASA Board members to a tour of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Nelson Mandela
Foundation and the Ponte City skyscraper. This gesture not only showcased Johannesburg’s rich heritage but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among participants.
Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso