BIBnuus

In this Q&A feature, we celebrate the academic achievements of two dedicated Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service staff members who have recently earned their master’s degrees. Mr. Mbongiseni Magagula, Faculty Librarian at the SU Music Library, and Mr. Xabiso Xesi, Manager of Research Data Services, share their journeys, motivations, and the impact these accomplishments have had on their careers.

Mr. Magagula completed his Master of Commerce in Leadership Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, with a thesis titled “Exploring Leadership Competencies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Library in a Digital Age.” His work blends his passions for music, arts, and leadership within the library sector. Mr. Xesi recently graduated on 2 September 2024, with a master’s degree focused on “The Adoption of Research Data Management Practices by Emerging Researchers: A Case Study of Emerging Researchers at a Higher Education Institution in the Western Cape, South Africa,” supervised by Michelle Kahn.

Q&A with Mr. Xabiso Xesi

Q: What inspired you to pursue a master’s degree in your field?

A: I have a background in information systems and wanted to enhance my knowledge of library processes. My main goal was to understand the foundational aspects of information management systems within an academic library setting.

Q: Can you share a memorable experience or challenge you faced during your studies?

A: One of my memorable moments is when I was selected as the recipient of the 2023 Research Seminar Series award for the most impactful student participation. The challenge I faced was around ethics application.

Q: How has earning this degree impacted your career goals or perspective on your field?

A: Earning this degree has motivated me to start exploring potential PhD topics that align with my interest in library science. It has also deepened my understanding of the field and reinforced my commitment to advancing my career in this area.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a master’s degree?

A: My advice is to remember that “your first draft is not going to be perfect.” Take great care with your submissions and never miss a deadline. Also, be sure to apply for ethics approval as early as possible to avoid delays in your research.

Q: What are your next steps or plans now that you have completed your master’s?

A: My next step is to pursue a PhD focused on “enhancing user experience in digital knowledge management systems: An inclusive and adaptive framework for academic libraries.”

Q&A with Mr. Mbongiseni Magagula

Q: What inspired you to pursue a master’s degree in your field?

A: Interestingly, I initially wanted to pursue public policy but was denied, as the department strictly offered it to students with a political science and public policy background (undergraduate degree). As a musician or arts administrator working in the music industry with the late Mr. Mbongeni Ngema, among others, and as a Library Information Science professional sitting in board meetings and serving on various library committees, I realised a significant gap in arts administration. This motivated me to combine my passion for leadership and creativity. I noticed a significant gap in leadership and administration within library services, particularly in specialised areas like academic libraries. This observation motivated me to pursue further qualifications. By pursuing this qualification, I aimed to bridge this gap and develop the necessary expertise to lead and innovate within the library sector, ensuring that our services remain relevant, dynamic, and responsive to the evolving needs of our users.

Q: Can you share a memorable experience or challenge you faced during your studies?

A: Moving to Stellenbosch right after registering for my degree and adapting to the new environment was a major challenge. Juggling the demands of my new employment with academic deadlines and personal commitments became difficult at times. However, this experience taught me important lessons about time management, prioritisation, and resilience. It drove me to create an organised routine, which eventually helped me excel both professionally and academically.

Q: How has earning this degree impacted your career goals or perspective on your field?

A: Obtaining this degree has greatly expanded my view of my musicianship and librarian duties. It has expanded my awareness of how leadership principles may be used in arts administration, which is consistent with my goal of bridging the gap between music, arts, and library science to empower myself and others. This confluence of areas has solidified my commitment to promoting significant change in both the creative and academic sectors.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a master’s degree?

A: Supposedly, it is critical to remain enquiring and guarantee that the course of study allows for exploring interdisciplinary interests, such as how I linked my passion for the arts, music, and librarianship with leadership studies. Time management is essential, especially when juggling numerous tasks, so preparing ahead and maximising your abilities will make the journey more rewarding. You should also reach out to other professionals in your field to build a support network and ensure you are prepared for the obligations of your education. Building a positive and professional relationship with your supervisor is critical to ease your study journey.

Q: What are your next steps or plans now that you have completed your master’s?

A: I am content to contribute whenever possible, using my experience to support projects and activities that correspond with my interests and professional objectives. In addition, I intend to investigate interest opportunities for enhancing arts administration and library services by using novel management practices and promoting collaborations that cross these disciplines.

In conclusion, the journey through a master’s degree is challenging yet immensely rewarding. It not only enhances professional knowledge and skills but also opens doors to new opportunities and perspectives in the field. Pursuing further education, like a PhD, is a testament to the commitment to continuous learning and advancing one’s career.

 

Theresa Schoeman

 

On 15 August 2024 the Nico Carstens Digital Database was handed over to the Music Library at Stellenbosch University. This handover marks a significant milestone in preserving and enhancing access to the extensive works of the renowned South African musician and accordionist, Nico Carstens.

During the handover meeting, the structure of the database was thoroughly explained. Klem Carstens detailed how the information was gathered and incorporated into the collection, a project that began in 2013. The process involved collecting records, taking photographs of all items held in the Music Library’s Documentation Centre for Music (DOMUS) and systematically adding the collected information to the database.

The database is divided into two main components: the Data section, which includes sheet music and documentation, and the Music section, which contains recordings and albums. Klem Carstens organised all music files into MP3 format and created MP4 videos for TV recordings of the songs, ensuring that all data was neatly compiled and synchronised. The database is designed to be researcher friendly, featuring intuitive navigation and search functions.

Additionally, a plastic container containing music and documentation (already integrated into the digital database), was also handed over.

Nico Carstens (1926-2016) was a prolific and versatile musician whose career spanned numerous genres and formats. He composed 600 works, with Anton de Waal penning lyrics for over 300 songs. Carstens published more than 1,000 compositions and produced over 100 commercial albums, selling more than two million records in South Africa alone. His influential work, Zambezi (1953), was recorded by 56 orchestras worldwide. Carstens also appeared in Afrikaans films and received several prestigious awards, including the Sarie Award, ATKV Award, SAMA, and an honorary accolade from the South African Academy for Science and Arts.

Founder of the Nico Carstens Orchestra in 1950, Carstens toured extensively across South Africa, and performed in various African countries and Europe. His South African engagements included TV and radio broadcasts, dance parties, agricultural shows, and music festivals, among others. He collaborated with notable musicians like Ray Phiri and his later works blended light Afrikaans music with Afro-jazz and Cape Malay influences.

The Nico Carstens collection donated to Stellenbosch University in 2012, encompass a wide array of paper documents and audiovisual materials, ensuring that Carstens’ rich legacy continues to be accessible for future research and appreciation.

 

Theresa Schoeman

An inspiring journey of passion, perseverance, and six Comrades Marathons

Introduction

In this enlightening interview, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Zisiwe Mnothoza, a dedicated athlete from Stellenbosch University Library who has completed six Comrades Marathons. Known for its gruelling distance and challenging terrain, the Comrades Marathon is not for the faint of heart. Zisiwe shares her inspiring story, revealing the immense dedication, rigorous training, and unwavering determination required to conquer this iconic ultramarathon. Through this conversation, we gain valuable insights into Zisiwe’s experiences, motivations, and the profound impact this journey has had on her life. Join us as we explore the essence of endurance and the spirit of a true marathon runner.

Q: What inspired you to start running, and what motivated you to participate in the Comrades Marathon?

A: Athletics has been my hobby since my early school grades. During my school days, I was a track and field athlete both in primary and high school. That didn’t end there; my interest and tireless involvement in athletics, specifically in running, grew even more when I got to university. I challenged myself even more by joining long-distance races gradually as I was still not quite sure which race exactly I fit well into. Evident that this is like a calling to me, I used to participate in races where we never received or per se never expected any prizes. When we were lucky, we would receive goodie bags as a motivation to do more and not be demotivated. The more I participated in different races, the more I got an opportunity to meet different runners. I started networking, and someone mentioned something about the Comrades Marathon, which triggered my interest even more. I started doing a bit of research about it, and I decided to challenge myself and joined just to see how far my body could carry me. Today, under my belt, I have recorded six Comrades Marathons with no regrets for the chance I have taken. If given the chance again, I would grab it with both hands because running the Comrades Marathon has helped me a lot in my life and given me an opportunity to meet different people. It also helped me to jump out of the introvert space.

Q: Can you describe your training regimen in the months leading up to the marathon? How did you prepare physically and mentally?

A: Before Comrades 2024, I followed a training program that helped me achieve my goal. The preparation was not easy, but I always reminded myself of the people rooting for me, which eased my mental preparation because I always glued my mind to my goals. One of my goals is to make my supporters proud. The training was challenging, especially as race day approached because it was dark during the winter season, and I was training alone during the week. I had to be brave and train in the mornings close to where I work because it felt safer. I chose one spot to train in because I was familiar with the area and knew there wouldn’t be any obstacles.

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the race, and how did you overcome them?

A: The challenge I typically face during races is cramps, but luckily this year I didn’t experience any. I conducted extensive research on cramps, so I knew how to prevent them.

Q: Do you have any memorable moments or highlights from your Comrades Marathon experiences that you can share?

A: Highlights of the Comrades Marathon include the incredible support from colleagues, friends, and family. Being the first woman to finish in my club is the ultimate achievement.

Q: How has participating in the Comrades Marathon impacted your life, both personally and professionally?

A: The Comrades Marathon has taught me discipline, consistency, and proper time management. It has also taught me the value of sharing (UBUNTU) during or out of the race.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who is considering running the Comrades Marathon for the first time?

A: The advice I would give to someone considering the Comrades Marathon is to commit, be consistent, stick to the plan, and not follow every piece of advice you receive. Everyone is different, so not everything that works for someone else will work for you!

 

Theresa Schoeman

 

The Library and Information Service is delighted to present its Annual report 2023. The report highlights the various activities undertaken by the Library to achieve its strategic objectives, which are in line with SU’s Vision 2040 and Strategic Framework 2019–2024.

Discover our numerous successes, including the hosting of a successful Open Repositories Conference, the quality certification of our institutional data repository (SUNScholarData), the receiving of a MACE Excellence Award for our TikTok initiatives, the Lifetime Achievement Award received by our Senior Director Ms Ellen Tise, the holding of a successful Library Research Week, favourable terms negotiated for open access publishing for SU researchers, the Manuscripts Section Lecture titled: ‘Woorde WAT groei‘ (“Words that grow”), and our visual redress initiatives.

The report focuses on our services, collections, technology, scholarship and partnerships during 2023. Read the report to learn about various ways our agile staff continue to make significant contributions on both national and international fora.

For more information contact Mimi Seyffert-Wirth​  |  t: +27 21 808 9431

 

Theresa Schoeman

Interview with Elizabeth Moll-Willard, Faculty Librarian: AgriSciences, Stellenbosch University

Introduction

In an era where social media has become a central hub for communication and engagement, Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service has taken an innovative approach to connect with students. Recognising the need to make the library a more welcoming and approachable space, the Faculty Librarians launched a TikTok project aimed at breaking down barriers and reducing the anxiety students often feel when seeking help. By tapping into the platform’s popularity among the student demographic, the library has not only showcased its services in a relatable and fun way but has also fostered a transformative student experience. In this interview, we delve into the inspiration behind the TikTok campaign, the challenges faced, and the strategies employed to ensure its success.

Q: Can you share with us the inspiration behind starting the TikTok project to promote the library at Stellenbosch University?

A: Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service’s Faculty Librarians noticed students being hesitant to speak to librarians and ask for help. When students did speak to us, it was always as though they were worried about asking the wrong thing and about disturbing us. We thought that perhaps this anxiety that they had also had to do in general with not being comfortable in the library. So we wanted to change that – we wanted them to see we are approachable, relatable and there to help them and that the library is their space – a safe space where they can find help. To do this, we wanted to reach students on a platform where they were present and in a way that showcased the “behind the scenes fun” in a library. TikTok is an extremely popular amongst students, so we decided to use that platform.

Q: What were some of the initial challenges you faced when implementing the TikTok campaign, and how did you overcome them?

A: We had to use our own equipment to create the account, manage it, film the videos and edit them. So, it was a bit of a learning curve to see how the platform worked, how the editing worked. We also had to work out what type of content was needed – initially we had thought to do more educational content, but we quickly realised from the reactions of students that that content wasn’t something they were interested in and they appreciated the fun content more. We also realised that posting anything negative just drives students away – so the focus shifted to only positive content.

Q: Could you walk us through the process of creating TikTok content that effectively showcased the library’s services and spaces?

A: We start by keeping an eye on TikTok trends – seeing what is out there. By leveraging trending sounds it creates more of a reach and the chances are better of engaging students. Once we see the trends – we look to see how we can adapt them. As an example – there was a trend where people swung something in a circle that they loved to a Taylor Swift song, we adapted that to the idea of a student waiting for a book that they loved, and swinging that round in a circle – showcasing that students can request books and pick them up.

Q:  How did you ensure that the TikTok content resonated with the target audience of undergraduate and postgraduate students?

A: We use the statistics of the views to tell us what age group and location are generally looking at our content – we want to mostly be within the 18-24 age and Stellenbosch / Cape Town for the location. If the majority of our viewers are within those two – it means that we are reaching the right audience. In terms of making sure the content is relevant to them, we make use of trends. We also do have students suggesting trends to us every now and then and that lets us know that they want to see us doing the trends.

Q: What metrics or indicators did you use to measure the success of the TikTok campaign in terms of student engagement and awareness of library resources?

A: We keep an eye on the number of views and the number of followers we have – if both grow then we measure that as a success. In terms of awareness of resources, at points when we have showcased something – an example could be the study cubicles – we have had students comment asking how to book. So immediately we can tell that students are seeing resources that they weren’t aware of. We have also run polls in the past on Instagram (where we cross post our TikTok videos) where we have asked for feedback – the majority of students indicated that they enjoy the videos and want us to continue.

Q: Can you share any memorable reactions or feedback from students regarding the TikTok videos and their impact on their perception of the library?

A: The most memorable has been perhaps during trainings – almost every faculty librarian has had students mention the TikTok videos. Twice, I’ve had the introducing student or staff member actually mention the TikTok account as part of introducing me. Anecdotally we have also seen students be less hesitant to approach us and ask questions – which is what we set out to do. On campus, we’ve been interviewed by the campus newspaper due to the ‘trending’ of our videos, we’ve had student groups request to collaborate with us on videos – all of this is extremely special and shows that we are making an impact on campus.

Q; How do you believe the TikTok campaign has contributed to reducing library anxiety among students and fostering a transformative student experience?

A: I do believe that it has made students feel more comfortable with the library – as they’ve seen it in a fun and relatable way on social media and more comfortable with the library staff. In this way, it makes sure that all students feel included on campus. Library anxiety often excludes students that are perhaps not used to the library spaces and already don’t feel comfortable on campus, so in this way we hope that those students are no longer feeling uncomfortable in the library.

Q: In what ways has leveraging TikTok trends helped in reaching and connecting with students on a platform familiar to them?

A: Through the use of trends, we are using something that is relatable to them. In this way it helps them connect to the library without evening needing to step foot on campus.

Q: How important was creativity in the TikTok campaign, and what strategies did you use to keep the content fresh and engaging?

A: Creativity is very important – we need to keep finding the trends, keep looking at what is out there and keep adapting it to our own context. This includes figuring out how to shoot – the angles used, if filters are needed. Colleagues help a lot – we all pitch in, and sometimes one person can come up with a different way to do it that just makes the video perfect!

Q: Looking ahead, how do you plan to build on the success of the TikTok campaign and continue engaging with students through innovative marketing approaches?

A: We will continue to focus on the trends to showcase the faculty librarian services and the spaces that are available. By keeping up to date with trends, it will help us be able to continue to reach students in their spaces. We hope to collaborate more on campus with other student groups as well. But we basically will keep doing what we are doing – it seems to work and engage students.

Theresa Schoeman

Winkie Siebane, Faculty Librarian:  Sciences, SU Library

Winkie Siebane is the new Faculty Librarian for Science. She joined the institution on June 1, 2024. Winkie is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Information Science at UNISA and holds a Master of Management from Wits University. She also earned a Higher Diploma in Information Sciences and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Limpopo. Winkie has consistently demonstrating her commitment to academic excellence and professional growth. Prior to this role, Winkie worked as an Information Specialist at the University of Pretoria’s Health Sciences Faculty. She also served as a Librarian at the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS), where she served clients across the Southern African region. Additionally, Winkie held a joint appointment with the Department of Health and the University of the Witwatersrand’s Health Sciences Faculty. Winkie is a proactive team member known for driving impactful projects and fostering meaningful collaborations. She is dedicated to advancing information services and supporting academic communities, making her a valuable addition to our team.

Theresa Schoeman

Joseph Mangadi, Faculty Librarian: Economic & Management Sciences, SU Library

Joseph joined the Faculty Librarian Team for Economic and Management Sciences on 1 May 2024. He holds a B.BIBL.(UWC), BA Honors (Information Science) from UNISA and a PGDE (Higher Education) from UCT. He brings extensive experience and previously served at University of the Western Cape (UWC) as Senior Librarian: Faculty Services and Cape Peninsula University (CPUT) as Faculty Librarian for Business and Management Sciences and Undergraduate and Staff training librarian. He has been an active member of the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) and was part of its Gauteng South and the LISLIG WC committees. Mr Mangadi also presented at the LIASA conference and the inaugural International Conference on Information Literacy Africa (ICIL-Africa).

 

Nokuphiwa Kunene, Director: Information Resources Management,      SU Library

Nokuphiwa has extensive experience working in academic libraries. Throughout her career, her experience includes occupying a strategic position in support of the Director’s office. She has managed several library systems projects, including systems implementations, new services implementation and the re-imagining of library spaces projects. Nokuphiwa’s keen interest in collection development and management, and the commitment to enable access to relevant information resources had drawn her back to the information resources management division.

 

Theresa Schoeman

On 03 April 2024 Special Collections received a group of 14 visitors to view the documents from the James Walton Collection (MS 247) housed at Special collections, SU Library. Some of the documents are also available on SUNDigital  https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/312

James Walton was born in Yorkshire in 1911 and died in Cape Town in 1999. He is well-known for his pioneering studies of the vernacular architecture of many countries in Africa, Europe and the Far East. He had authored more than 200 papers in journals, chapters and several books on vernacular architecture, including homesteads and villages, and mills in South Africa.

James Walton was honoured on various occasions for his outstanding work.  In 1992 he donated his valuable collection to the University of Stellenbosch for research purposes. To enable access to the documents the collection was indexed and catalogued in 1993. The complete collection consists of manuscripts, drawings, photographs, newsletters, lectures, portfolios, albums, plans, newspaper clippings, pamphlets and brochures.

The visitors included five family members of James Walton: His granddaughter, Jennifer Trewin, her husband (Pete) and their two daughters (Connie and Georgia) and George Todd (Son-in -law to James Walton) who are visiting South Africa from the UK.

Nine members from the Vernacular Architecture Society of South Africa (VASSA) accompanied the James Walton Family. They visited the Special Collections in celebration of their 60^th anniversary this year and to also commemorate James Walton as the founding member of the organisation.

The purpose of the visit was:

• • for Research and publication opportunities
  • to view the different Vernacular Architecture collections available at Special Collections e.g. James Walton, Andre Pretorius and Johanna Marx collections.

The visit was organised by Antonia Malan and Pat Kramer. Members that attended were (Joy Woodward, Avis Fisher, Alex Dodge, Raph Malan, Anton Roux, Roshan Bhurtha and Elliz Maritz.

Staff of Special Collection welcomed the visitors by showcasing some of the James Walton authored books (housed in Africana), documents, manuscripts, drawings and slides kept in specially made boxes in the Manuscript section, Special Collections.

The Index & Catalogue of the collection was placed on display for them to showcase what is in the actual collection.

See below feedback from the visitors after the visit:

Dear all,

“A huge heartfelt thank you for making us all feel so welcome today. I know Grandad would be utterly delighted that we all gathered – he was happiest when folk about him were happy. To see his collection was quite something! Thank you for all you are doing to maintain it. Aren’t we lucky to have Stellenbosch University Library taking such good care.  Our love and thanks to you all”  George, Jen, Connie, Georgia and Pete

Special Collections staff

Xabiso Xesi, SU Library

Xabiso Xesi joined the Library as the Manager: Research Data Services  on 01 February 2024. Before joining us, Xabiso served as a Digital Scholarship Specialist at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Libraries. However, he is no stranger to SU having previously worked as an Information Systems Coordinator at the University’s Division for Research Management. He brings extensive expertise in research data management, scholarly communication and information systems management which was gained during his time at the CPUT and SU. Armed with a Postgraduate Diploma in Knowledge and Information Systems Management from Stellenbosch University and a BCom Honours in Information Systems, he is completing an MPhil in Digital Curation at the University of Cape Town. If Xabiso is not exploring new academic tools in his spare time, he is on Spotify enjoying South African jazz music and old-school deep house.

 

Sakhile Mngomezulu, SU Library

Sakhile Mngomezulu joined the Library as the Manager: Scholarly Communications and Open Access on 01 February 2024. Previously, he served as Senior Librarian: Institutional Repository and Systems Support at North-West University following a role as Librarian: Scholarly Communications at the same institution. Sakhile also worked as an Information Specialist at Varsity College IIE and at the Management College of Southern Africa. He holds a Bachelor of Information Studies degree from the University of Limpopo and a Master of Information Science Degree from the University of South Africa. He is presently enrolled for a Ph.D. in Information Science at the University of South Africa. In his spare time, Sakhile enjoys playing football and was a member of the North-West University staff soccer team.