On Saturday, 15 March 2025, the Stellenbosch University Library and the Medicine & Health Sciences Library proudly opened their doors to prospective students and their families as part of the University’s annual In-Person Open Day. With the sun shining and excitement in the air, over 1,300 visitors stepped into our spaces to explore what the Library has to offer — and they were truly impressed.
From the moment guests arrived, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. “Wow,” was one of the most common reactions. Many described the SU Library as the biggest and most beautiful library they’d ever seen.
Visitors were especially drawn to the modern and spacious Research Commons, while the Makerspace sparked curiosity and creativity. One mom excitedly encouraged her child to return and 3D print a vase for Mother’s Day. Others were intrigued by our special collections and delighted to see how vibrant and well-used the library is — even on a Saturday.
Across campus, the Medicine & Health Sciences Library also welcomed visitors, with many commenting on its calm, inviting environment. With 410 visitors, this branch showed consistent interest and gave guests a glimpse into its beautiful study spaces and supportive academic resources.
We were also touched by the number of alumni who returned to show their children “where it all started,” reminiscing about their time as students and marveling at how much the Library has grown.
A dedicated team of staff from both libraries ensured that every tour was informative, welcoming and memorable. Special thanks go to our volunteers for their energy and enthusiasm throughout the day.
The takeaway? Stellenbosch University Library continues to leave a lasting impression — and we’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year.
Theresa Schoeman