Linda Bruwer of Strand Library was among a group of 20 emerging library leaders welcomed to the fold by the City of Cape Town’s Library and Information Services in celebration of National Librarians Day marked on Monday 10 July.
They underwent Strengthening Innovative Library Leaders (SILL) training created by the Mortenson Center for International Programs at the University of Illinois Library, with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It was adapted to include local needs by the City.
The second SILL academy was held in May and 20 City librarians received their certificates this week.
The training’s aim is to enhance participants’ understanding and confidence in their own leadership styles and how to build their capacity to drive change and innovative service in their libraries for the benefit of their communities.
It strongly emphasises group work and discussion and personal feedback for future development.
Apart from Bruwer, the librarians who completed the training are: Ayanda Qagana from Philippi East Library, Charmaine Fritz from Wynberg Library, Conette Roodman from Durbanville Library, Durith Desmore from Wesfleur Library, Florrence Bowers from Bonteheuwel Library, Kathleen Bailey from Retreat Library, Kholeka Tshabalala from Bellville South Library, Lauren Lengeveldt from Tokai Library, Lauren Johnson from Melton Rose Library, Luther Jantjies from PD Paulse Library, Mandisa Xotyeni from Browns Farm Library, Mitchel Hunter from Fish Hoek Library, Nonopha Magula from Central Library, Nosimpiwe Ncoko from Delft South Library, Octavia Kotzee from Wesfleur Library, Portia Nyokana from Weltevreden Library, Raphael Snyders from Southfield Library, Thembela Dike from Table View Library and Tukishi Tema from Eikendal Library.
The theme of the SILL Academy was “Take the first step”, which encourages the participants to take charge of their own professional journeys as librarians and leaders and to become mentors for others. On Monday, they pledged to uphold the values of the City and the profession and to “Proudly be a public librarian”.
“By participating in this programme, these librarians have sharpened their ability to take initiative, solve problems, drive innovation, communicate with others, understand their own leadership and communication styles, and implement action plans,” said Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross. “It is encouraging to see so many of our librarians taking the opportunity to grow and cement their positions as leaders within our communities.”
