Twenty-three City librarians graduated as emerging leaders, strengthening public libraries through innovation, leadership development and improved community services that benefit residents across Cape Town.
Twenty-three librarians have graduated from the City’s Strengthening Innovative Library Leaders (SILL) programme, marking another milestone in developing the next generation of public library leaders.
The graduation, held on South African Librarians Day, celebrated the completion of the fifth annual leadership programme, which has now equipped 80 City librarians with the skills and confidence to strengthen library services across communities.
Developed by the Mortenson Center for International Library Programs at the University of Illinois Library, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the programme prepares professional librarians to lead innovation, improve service delivery and respond to the changing needs of library users.
Participants completed training during May and June, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, communication, innovation, project planning, networking and understanding community needs.
The programme also encourages librarians to embrace new technologies and develop practical solutions that improve public access to information and learning opportunities.
Councillor Francine Higham, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, praised the graduates for investing in their professional growth.
“I want to applaud our librarians for their commitment to continuous learning and professional development, in turn deepening their impact on the communities they serve. At a time of rapidly changing digital landscapes, their commitment to learning new skills is highly commendable. By expanding their own expertise, they ensure that our library users have access to the highest standard of guidance and information literacy.”
Among the graduates, Sipho Fako from Wynberg Library will present a lightning talk at the National LIASA Conference later this year, while Randall Rousseau from Valhalla Park Library is exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance library services, improve operational efficiency and create new learning opportunities for library users.
This year’s graduation theme, Future-Fit Librarians, reflects the City’s commitment to building a modern, innovative library service that continues to empower communities through lifelong learning, leadership and access to knowledge.
