Honouring workers on Library Worker’s Day
For World Library Workers Day, Caxton Durban interviewed Khaya Sithole, the manager of Umbilo Library, who shares about his experience and passion for his work.
TODAY (April 9) is World Library Workers’ Day, which is celebrated to recognise the valuable contributions made by library workers across the globe. Libraries are significant in preserving history and literature, and the dedicated staff understands the importance of maintaining functioning libraries worldwide.
To commemorate Library Worker’s Day, Caxton Durban interviewed Khaya Sithole, the manager of Umbilo Library, who has over 10 years of experience in working and managing a library. Sithole shared his thoughts on why he chose to become a library worker, the qualifications he obtained and his reading preferences.
Also read: Durban North Library fosters love for reading through inclusion
Here are the questions and answers from the interview:
1. Which library do you work for?
I work for Umbilo Library.
2. How long have you worked there?
I have worked there for four years.
3. Have you worked at any other libraries?
Yes, I have worked at Montford Library and Hambanathi Library, which are both under eThekwini Municipality. I also worked at Mandeni Library under Mandeni Municipality for six years.
4. What and where did you study?
I obtained a National Diploma (DUT), Btech (DUT) in Library and Information Studies, and an Honours Degree in Library and Information Science (UKZN).
5. What made you want to work in a library?
I have always been an inquisitive individual and enjoyed finding new and relevant discoveries that alleviate illiteracy in our society. What better place than the library, which offers endless information and lifelong access to new findings?
6. What are your thoughts on this year’s theme of Library Workers Day?
The theme this year is ‘Libraries Foster Social Cohesion’, which is truly winsome as public libraries offer free access to books, multimedia resources, the internet and educational programmes. They ensure that everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, has the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills, thus reducing disparities and promoting a sense of equality and belonging. The Libraries Department also organises various events, workshops and programmes tailored to the needs and interests of their communities. These activities bring people together around common interests, hobbies or concerns, fostering bonds and relationships among participants. eThekwini Libraries is looking forward to hosting a Literacy Summit on Thursday, April 11, at the ICC, as well as an Articulate Africa programme later this month.
7. As a library worker, what do you wish the public to know about the library?
I wish to inform the public that libraries provide free access to a wide range of resources, including books, magazines, newspapers, audiovisual materials and digital databases. This access empowers individuals to pursue knowledge, education and personal interests without financial barriers.
8. Why are libraries important in communities?
Libraries are important for various reasons, primarily for access to information, community engagement spaces, support for education, digital inclusion and preservation of heritage. If community libraries are used accordingly, they play a significant role in creating inclusive, vibrant and resilient communities.
Also read: Firwood Library receives much-needed TLC
9. What would you like to see in libraries across the country, for example, what improvements?
I would like to see increased collaborations with the NLSA (National Library of South Africa) and enhanced digital resources among all communities in the country.
10. Briefly tell us about the history of the Umbilo Library.
The Umbilo Library first opened its doors to the public in 1930 and was situated on the corner of Fenniscowles Road and Bartle Road until 1985. It closed on June 24, 1995, and relocated to Queensmead Mall until November 30, 2020. Umbilo Library reopened its doors to the public on November 1, 2023, and is still on the same premises today.
11. What does your day look like as a library worker?
There’s always a wide range of duties in a day, from patron support to smooth library operation processes, community engagement with local stakeholders and outreach to develop programmes and services that address community priorities.
12. What’s your favorite part about your job?
Any part of the day related to community development and literacy promotion programmes.
13. Do you read any of the books, and what’s your favorite genre to read?
I do read quite a bit of fiction, but mostly for cognitive development and necessary knowledge acquisition purposes. Therefore, my favourite genre is non-fiction.
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