Literacy workshop helps start discussions on promoting reading

The Merebank Library hosted an enthralling workshop aimed at revitalising reading with comprehension in the community and schools.

May 6, 2025

Dillon Pillay 1 minute read

Merebank librarian René Harry speaks on the programmes and resources offered by the library. Photos: Dillon Pillay.

THE Merebank Library was filled with the buzz of enthusiasm and ideas when it recently hosted a successful literacy workshop, uniting teachers, writers, librarians and members of the community with the shared objective of building reading for comprehension.

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Merebank Library librarian René Harry said the workshop was to engage participants in co-operation and knowledge sharing among libraries, schools and the community.

“The purpose of the workshop was to engage, share knowledge and form collaborative partnerships between libraries, schools and the community so that more can be done in the way of improving reading for understanding,” she said.

Harry said they had 30 attendees, including 23 community members and about seven librarians from other libraries. Workshop facilitator Irene Fynn, a passionate teacher, literacy advocate and Hime Street author, led the day’s conversation and encouraged wonderful discussions on the role of literacy in community development.

Irene Taylor Fynn helped promote healthy discussions as facilitator for the workshop.

“Chrystal Rosenberg spoke about reading and the mind, while René Smith taught us about the issues the community is facing regarding reading. Lithakazi Mkombe presented us with her reading app, One Old Note, which she created, and I also spoke about library services, resources and programmes,” she added.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by senior librarian Slie Mosia, who thanked the speakers and participants for their attendance and commitment to literacy. Harry added that participants were also asked to reflect and report on what they had learnt, which facilitated healthy discussions and added to the spirit of co-operation on the day.

Neil Ivon Axford shared his feedback on the literacy workshop and committed himself to promote library usage.

Harry said the workshop was a resounding success, with volunteers providing positive feedback and showing interest in taking part in future literacy projects. “Many attended revitalised, having made new contacts and wanting to be part of community-based reading projects,” she said.

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