Read all about it: Northern Cape to salute its librarians

LIBRARIANS from across the Northern Cape will be honoured this week during a special event at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), as the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) marks Librarian Day 2025 under the theme: “Twelve Languages. One Nation. One Wikipedia.”

The event, which takes place on Thursday, July 10 at noon at the university’s Library Auditorium in Kimberley, will shine a spotlight on the evolving role of librarians in South Africa’s multilingual democracy.

In partnership with the SPU, the department aims to celebrate the invaluable contribution of librarians and library workers in preserving indigenous languages, promoting literacy and education, and ensuring access to information for all — regardless of language or background.

The theme highlights the importance of knowledge equity and the role of platforms like Wikipedia in advancing inclusive information sharing in all 12 official languages. It also aligns with broader efforts to promote cultural heritage and digital participation in communities that have historically been underserved.

In a special segment of the programme, the department will recognise employees currently pursuing formal studies to become qualified librarians. Their commitment to personal growth and professional development is seen as key to the future of libraries and lifelong learning in South Africa.

In the words of a local book lover: “Librarians are not just keepers of books. They are community leaders, educators, digital navigators, and language champions. They deserve to be celebrated.”