Author: Marié Roux (Page 2 of 16)

Are you a researcher looking for the best tools to visualise your research results, or an administrator eager to showcase the impact of your faculty’s work?

Since 2020, the Library has incorporated Data Visualisation as a service, as part of the division, Research Impact Services. This service has grown over the years to four workshops on the topic. If you need any assistance with visualising your data, a consultation service is also available. Libraries are taking on the role of data visualisation support worldwide. An article published in 2020 in the Journal of Interactive Technology and Pedagogy describes the library’s role in this regard:  “As libraries already play a key role in advocacy for information literacy and ethics, they may also serve as unaffiliated, central places to gain basic competencies in associated information and data skills. Training patrons how to accurately analyze, assess, and create data visualizations is a natural enhancement to this role”.

The topics covered in these workshops vary from basic principles of data visualisation, an overview of tools available for effective data visualisation and introductory workshops on three of the tools, Microsoft Power BI, Tableau Public and Flourish. These workshops are general in nature and not directed towards specific types of visualisations used in different subject fields. The aim is also to introduce you to the tools for future self-exploration.

The workshop series on Data Visualisation for the year has concluded earlier in September. If you need access to the recordings of the workshops, you are very welcome to contact us. Or if you need one-on-one assistance, please make an appointment.

Contact: Marié Roux

Make an appointment for a consultation

Reference:

Aghassibake, Negreen; Jocque, Justin and Sisk, Matthew L. 2020. Supporting Data Visualization Services in Academic Libraries. Journal of Interactive Technology and Pedagogy. No 18.

 

Introduction

A few months ago, the then newly appointed Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Stellenbosch University (SU) shared his “bolder” vision for the institution. This vision not only seeks to position SU as Africa’s leading research-intensive university but also aspires to secure a place as Africa’s first global Top 100 university. In an article published on the University’s website, “SU welcomes second cohort of SUNRISE fellows”, the VC emphasised that this ambition is not a mere slogan but a call to action, requiring the collective commitment of all University stakeholders.

In this context, it is imperative that the Library, as a strategic academic partner, clearly articulates its role in helping to realise this ambitious goal. As Mushtaq and Shahzan (2025) note, libraries have an influential role in shaping institutional rankings.

What does it mean for SU to be Africa’s first global top 100 university?

Although the vision of becoming a Top 100 university has not yet been fully unpacked, it is useful to consider how university rankings operate. A simple search reveals that there are over 47 ranking systems globally, each using its own indicators to benchmark the performance and impact of academic institutions. Despite these differences, there is broad consensus that the “Big Three” rankings: Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings, and the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU, or Shanghai Rankings), are the most influential (Bernal, 2019; Östlundh, 2019).

The “Big Three” institutional ranking systems

This section provides an overview of the ‘Big Three’ ranking systems as explained by Bernal (2019).

• THE World University Rankings

For nearly five decades, Times Higher Education has ranked universities and provided data to prospective students. THE uses 13 performance indicators, grouped into five categories: teaching (learning environment), research (volume, income, reputation), citations (research influence), international outlook (staff, students, research), and industry income (knowledge transfer). Citation data is drawn from Scopus and measured over a six-year window.

• QS World University Rankings

The QS rankings currently cover approximately 1,000 universities across 85 countries, based on six indicators: academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty/student ratio, citations per faculty, international faculty ratio, and international student ratio. Like THE, QS also uses bibliometric data sourced from Scopus.

• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU / Shanghai Rankings)

First published in 2003 by the Center for World-Class Universities (CWCU), ARWU evaluates institutions using six objective measures: the number of alumni and staff who have received Nobel Prizes and Fields Medals; the number of highly cited researchers (Clarivate Analytics); publications in Nature and Science; papers indexed in the Science Citation Index-Expanded (SCIE) and Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI); and overall per capita performance. ARWU is the only one of the Big Three to use Web of Science (WoS) data. Each year, ARWU evaluates more than 1,200 universities and publishes the top 500.

How does the Library Contribute?

Libraries act as strategic partners in enhancing institutional rankings through the provision of quality information resources, researcher support, and visibility services (Dimzov, Matošić, and Urem, 2021).

Given the strong emphasis of most ranking systems on research impact and visibility, the Libraries contribute in several key ways:

• Open Access and Open Science infrastructure: By managing institutional repositories (IRs), negotiating favourable OA agreements, promoting OA-first policies, and raising awareness among researchers, the Library can significantly increase the visibility and citation potential of SU’s research outputs. IRs also serve as a showcase for the University’s scholarship and unique heritage collections. Stellenbosch University hosts four repositories: SUNScholar, SUNJournals, SUNDigital Collections and SUNScholarData. In addition, as a member of the South African National Library and Information Consortium (SANLiC), SU has signed 18 “read and publish” (transformational) agreements that make it possible for researchers to publish OA in hybrid journals of those publishers and/or get a discount on Article Processing Charges (APCs). All these efforts serve to increase the reach, impact and visibility of SU research.
• Research publishing support: Librarians advise researchers on selecting reputable journals, while discouraging submissions to predatory or low-quality outlets. The Library also provides bibliometric and altmetric analyses to individuals, departments, and centres to track outputs, citations, and visibility. Additionally, the Library provides research/er assessment tools such as SciVal, Scopus and Web of Science that enable researchers and research entities to benchmark and gauge themselves and their research impact with others. Knowing where the University really stands may help galvanise it into seeking knew strategies to strengthen its research capacity or target certain publishers favoured by the ranking agencies.
• Promotion of multiple literacies: The Library has evolved beyond being a traditional hub for developing basic literacy skills. It now plays a pivotal role in capacity building by offering specialised workshops tailored to the diverse needs of students and researchers. These include training in digital and information literacy, as well as emerging areas such as data literacy and the ethical use of artificial intelligence. Mastery of these literacies is essential for advancing high-quality research and innovation in the 21st century, directly contributing to the University’s academic excellence and global competitiveness.
• Research and learning spaces: The Library provides innovative and inclusive spaces, such as research commons, learning commons, makerspaces, collaborative spaces, and virtual meeting facilities, that foster both academic excellence and institutional visibility. These dynamic environments serve as incubators for innovative research ideas, support interdisciplinary collaboration, and enrich the student learning experience. These spaces have the potential to contribute to the elevation of the quality of research and innovation at the University, serving as strategic assets that contribute to its global competitiveness and ranking profile.

Conclusion

While libraries may not contribute directly to rankings through research output, their influence is nonetheless substantial. Universities rely on libraries to make research visible, accessible, and impactful, as well as to provide the essential teaching and research resources that underpin academic excellence. Additionally, these libraries provide capacity building offerings for multiple literacies required for research and academic excellence. In this way, the Library functions as an enabler of research, teaching, and innovation, all of which are critical considerations in institutional rankings and SU’s journey toward becoming Africa’s first global Top 100 university

References

Bernal, L. 2019. Library impact with international rankings—one library’s continuous journey to figure it out. https://www.libraryassessment.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/17-Bernal-LibraryImpact.pdf.

Dimzov, S., Matošić, M. and Urem, I., 2021. University rankings and institutional affiliations: Role of academic librarians. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 47(5), p.102387.

Mushtaq, M. and Shahzan, M., 2025. Libraries as Supporting Agencies for Enhancing the Ranking Score of Academic Institutes. International Information & Library Review, 1-14.

Östlundh, L., 2019. The role of academic libraries in ranking of institutional research impact. https://scholarworks.uaeu.ac.ae/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1002&context=presentations

Author: Dr Siviwe Bangani

FAQ’s set up by Division for Research Development

Take note of the two FAQ’s on ORCID at the bottom of the list:

• How do I add my ORCID?
• Having your Elements account write your publications data to your ORCID account

Junior Librarian Zisiwe Mnothoza is not only a dedicated member of the Library’s E-resources team but also an accomplished ultra-marathon runner. With seven Comrades Marathons under her belt, she exemplifies focus, resilience, and determination. I spoke to her about what it takes to prepare for South Africa’s most iconic long-distance race while managing a full-time career.

How many Comrades Marathons have you completed so far?

I have completed seven Comrades Marathons.

What does your training programme typically look like over 12 months?

The Comrades Marathon training requires careful planning and consistent effort over many months. My 12-month programme includes a mix of base-building, speed work, long runs, and recovery phases. As race day approaches, I gradually taper the intensity and volume to avoid fatigue.

Do you follow a specific eating plan or nutrition routine while training?

I don’t follow a specific eating plan, but I make sure to eat foods that support and boost my overall health.

Do you work with a coach or follow your own plan?

I have a coach who gives me structured guidance and training programmes.

Do you train alone or with a group?

During the week, I usually train alone, but on weekends, I train with a group.

How did you experience this year’s Comrades?

In the 2025 Comrades, my training route had to change due to time constraints, which made it more challenging for me.

How did your 2025 time compare to previous years?

Technically, I was faster. In 2024, the distance was 88 km and I finished in 8 hours and 28 minutes. In 2025, the distance was 90 km, and I completed it in 8 hours and 29 minutes.

Will you be doing it again next year?

Yes, I plan to run again next year.

How do you stay motivated after such a major event?

My desire to improve every year is what keeps me going.

I’ve noticed you strength train in the mornings—does that help with recovery and preparation?

Yes, strength training definitely helps. It enhances performance and reduces the risk of injury.

 

We salute Zisiwe for her unwavering discipline and look forward to cheering her on in next year’s race!

Author: Theresa Schoeman

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service hosted its third #BeOpenAccessSmartWebinar on 19 June 2025, titled “Beyond Transformative Agreements – Reflections from an Open Access Working Group.” The session featured renowned guest speaker Professor Astrid Söderbergh Widding, former President of Stockholm University 2013-2025, Chair of the Board of the Nobel Foundation and Chair of the Beyond Transformative Agreements Working Group in Sweden.

Opening remarks were delivered by Ms Ellen Tise, who welcomed attendees from 23 countries. Prof. Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, highlighted the global growth of “Read and Publish” agreements but noted their financial strain on institutions in the Global South. She encouraged continued use of such agreements as interim solutions, while calling for alternative and equitable Open Access models.

Prof. Widding presented a comprehensive overview of Sweden’s approach to Open Science. She explained how the Bibsam Consortium, consisting of 95 Swedish institutions, manages over 30 transformative agreements. Sweden’s national goal is to transition to a full Open Science system by 2026, with guidelines developed by the National Library and the Swedish Association of Higher Education Institutions.

She described four potential routes for moving beyond transformative agreements: (1) cancelling existing agreements with commercial publishers, (2) exploring alternative publishing platforms, (3) implementing lump-sum funding in place of APCs, and (4) adopting rights retention strategies to keep copyright within the academic community. While rights retention has gained traction in the UK and Norway, Sweden is still exploring its feasibility.

A pivotal decision shared during the webinar was the Bibsam Consortium’s plan to cease negotiating agreements for hybrid journals from 2026. Instead, future negotiations will focus solely on fully Open Access journals. Prof. Widding emphasised the importance of developing robust infrastructure for Diamond Open Access as a sustainable publishing model—one that is free for both readers and authors.

She firmly stated that the academic community must reclaim ownership of the scholarly publishing system and reduce reliance on commercial publishers. Transparency in cost models and collective academic behaviour are crucial levers for change.

The session called on global institutions—especially in the Global South—to imagine a fairer future for knowledge sharing, where access is not dictated by commercial interests, but by academic collaboration.

The next webinar in the series is scheduled for 17 September 2025.

Authors: Sakhile Mngomezulu and Theresa Schoeman

Please contact Sakhile Mngomezulu for any enquiries on Open Access publishing.

The manuscript section in Special Collections hosts material for answering different research questions.  Topics include: Afrikaans literature and language, Architecture and vernacular architecture, Arts, Cultural history, Education, Missionary and religion, Music, Press and journalism, Societies, Organisations and institutions, South African history, South African politics and government, South African social and economic history, South African War, Stellenbosch University / Victoria College. (Consult the SUNDigital, Finding aid page for more information.

In this blog post, the focus is on the town of Stellenbosch. The types of documents available in these collections are meeting minutes, agendas, correspondence from organisations involved in identifying and maintaining heritage buildings (e.g SAHRA (South African Heritage Resources Agency), the Simon van der Stel Foundation, the National Monuments Council, Van Riebeeck Society), and writings on South African history. These are crucial for researchers interested in the following topics:

1. Heritage Conservation: The identification, maintenance, and preservation of historical buildings and sites in and around Stellenbosch.
2. Local History: Detailed insights into the social, cultural, and economic history of Stellenbosch, which could include information on significant events, figures, and everyday life in the town.
3. Educational History: The history of Stellenbosch University, given Prof. Thom’s significant connection to the institution.
4. Cultural and Architectural Heritage: The vernacular architecture and cultural significance of buildings and structures in Stellenbosch.

H B Thom collection (MS 191)

One of the significant collections mentioned is the H.B. Thom collection (MS 191), which spans over 50 meters of documents. This collection is particularly valuable for its insights into the historical and cultural landscape of Stellenbosch, given Prof. Thom’s extensive affiliation with Stellenbosch University. His roles as a student, lecturer, and eventually Rector of the university provide a unique perspective on the town’s history.

Other significant collections to mention include: Francois Smuts -, Joanna Marx -, James Walton – and Andre Pretorius Collections.

Francois Smuts Collection (MS  229)

Prof Smuts was born on a farm in the Stellenbosch district,  matriculated from Paul Roos Gymnasium, and studied at the universities of Stellenbosch. He was lecturing Latin at Stellenbosch University since 1938. Professor from 1951 – 1981.

This collection contains information on Stellenbosch and correspondence and research from organisations like the Simon van der Stel Foundation, National Monuments Council and the manuscript and research on the book : “Stellenbosch Drie Eeue” and “Die Grondeienaars van Stellenbosch, 1693 – 1860”.

Joanna Marx Collection (MS 422)

This collection consists of South African heritage material, mainly SAHRA (South African Heritage Resources Agency).

“SAHRA is an agency of the Department of  Sport, Arts and Culture tasked with an overall legislative mandate to identify, assess, manage, protect, and promote heritage resources in South Africa.”

A large section, of the Marx Collection, consists of material pertaining to the mills (for example the Mostert Mill in Cape Town). There are pamphlets, brochures, newsletters, lecture notes, portfolios, albums, photos, sketches, plans, newspaper clippings, conservation/preservation of buildings, reports, surveys and other miscellaneous information.

James Walton– and André Pretorius collections

These collections on vernacular architecture in South Africa contain books and pamphlets, including homesteads and villages of South Africa, African villages, Cape dovecots, fowl-runs, watermills, windmills and horse mills of South Africa.

You can also consult the Vernacular Architecture Society of South Africa and articles about these valuable collections.

The curation and preservation of these collections can be interpreted as a direct support to the aims of Sustainable Development Goals (especially SDG 11.4) by safeguarding cultural heritage, enabling research, and promoting awareness of Stellenbosch’s intangible heritage. To gain more detailed information or to access specific documents within these collections, consulting resources like SUNDigital and the finding aid pages, as suggested, would be beneficial steps.

Contact Marieta Buys for more information or assistance.

“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” and “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” With these words in mind, we invite you to explore the leisure reading bookshelf at the SU Library.

Located just inside the library entrance, this collection was established in 2012 to offer students and researchers a way to take a break from the pressures of academic life. But relaxation isn’t the only benefit. Dewan (2010) highlights multiple studies showing a strong connection between reading, cognitive development, verbal skills, academic achievement, higher-order reasoning, and critical thinking.

The books in this collection come from the library’s regular literature shelves, donations from staff and the public, and purchases made through the Library’s general book fund. The books can be identified by the letters LR in front of the shelf number. As illustrated in the image below, you can use the advanced search option in the library’s catalogue to find a list of the 1 040 titles in the collection. You will find books by authors such as Deon Meyer (Afrikaans and English versions), Jo Nesbo, Ken Follett, Marita van der Vyver and Rudie van Rensburg, and popular comic books, poetry, and many more.

With the winter holidays approaching, feel free to visit the SU Library and pick up a few titles to help you relax and recharge after a busy first semester.

Reference:

Dewan, Pauline. 2010. Why your academic library needs a popular reading collection now more than ever. College & Undergraduate Libraries, 17(1), 44–64. DOI: 10.1080/10691310903584775

Author: Naomi Visser

Stellenbosch University’s Library and Information Service hosted its annual Library Research Week from May 12th to 16th. Under the overarching theme, “Let’s partner for research impact,” the week-long event delved into the intricacies of the research lifecycle, offering a diverse array of sessions designed to empower and inspire academics. Observations highlight a week brimming with intellectual exchange, practical insights, and a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation.

The week commenced on a high note on Monday, 12 May, with Professor Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, officially opening the event. Professor Moyo underscored the critical role of Library Research Week in strengthening the University’s research ecosystem. Following Professor Moyo’s opening, the audience was given a powerful guest lecture by the esteemed Professor Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela, the 2024 Templeton Prize winner and Research Chair for Historical Trauma and Transformation. Professor Gobodo-Madikizela offered a penetrating reflection on the concept of encounters as vital sites of knowledge production. Sharing personal anecdotes of both positive and negative experiences, she illustrated how these everyday interactions have profoundly shaped her research and worldview. She concluded her impactful address with a poignant statement: “The failure to recognise humanity at all – is evil. As embodied beings, we are exposed to others. And while this allows for connection and desire, it also raises the potential for cruelty. It is within this space that our work, our research, and our humanity must reside.”

Tuesday, 13 May featured four insightful sessions on decoloniality as a research method, the impact of copyright and trademark use throughout the research process, literature reviews and systematic reviews.

Wednesday, 15 May, had five sessions dedicated to the transformative power of AI and other technological advancements. The interest in these sessions was prevalent through the high number of registrations and attendance. The webinars included presentations from Wiley, Elsevier and WWIS and also from two SU experts. The generative AI-centred webinars differentiated between traditional and generative AI, showcasing tools like Google Gemini and Copilot, and stressing ethical considerations such as copyright and disclosure.  The day also featured a session on the potential benefits and applications of using generative AI opportunities in research.

Thursday, 16 May focused on four sessions offering practical strategies and services available to SU staff, researchers and students, including the benefits of open access publishing, SU opportunities for global academic engagement, enhancing research impact and developing a data management plan using SunDMP.  The week closed off on Friday, 16 May, focusing on webinars that support researcher and societal wellbeing.

The Library Research Week working group, led by Dr Siviwe Bangani, wants to thank everyone who attended. A huge thank you also to all of the presenters, especially to Professor Moyo and Professor Gobodo-Madikizela for opening what was another successful week.

Some of the recordings are restricted to SU staff and students. If you would like to view these, you may email Kirchner van Deventer for access. The majority of the recordings, including the Launch, can be viewed on the library’s YouTube channel.

Author: Kirchner van Deventer

Below is more information about the content and attendance of the event. Please click on the image to read.
(Infographic created by Marié Roux)