Unisa Library and Information Services (LIS) has established itself as a cornerstone of academic scholarship, offering a dynamic environment for intellectual engagement and cultural preservation. In 2024, LIS hosted several impactful book launches, reinforcing its mission to advance knowledge, foster scholarly dialogue, and promote cultural sustainability. These events illustrate the growing influence of LIS in shaping the future of academia, both locally and globally.
Book launches: Indigenous Archives in Postcolonial Contexts (left) and The Faces and Phases of Inkosi Albert Luthuli (right)
Celebrating indigenous knowledge and archives
On 20 March 2024, LIS marked South African Library Week by hosting the launch of Indigenous Archives in Postcolonial Contexts, authored by Professor Mpho Ngoepe and Dr Sindiso BheBhe. This groundbreaking book addresses decolonisation and the preservation of indigenous African archives, sparking crucial discussions on the need for African communities to reclaim their histories through archival preservation.
The event, featuring prominent speakers, including Professor Mathole Motshekga, highlighted LIS’s commitment to supporting research that deepens our understanding of the postcolonial landscape of Africa and advocates for the protection of African cultural heritage.
Honouring South Africa’s freedom fighters
On 19 July 2024, LIS hosted the launch of The Faces and Phases of Inkosi Albert Luthuli, a publication edited by Professor Puleng Segalo and Dr Tinyiko Chauke, both esteemed academics from the University of South Africa. This insightful book explores the life and philosophy of Chief Albert Luthuli, a pivotal figure in South Africa’s freedom struggle and the first African Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.
The launch featured reflections from the editors and contributors, highlighting how Luthuli’s legacy continues to inspire contemporary social justice movements. Attendees engaged in discussions that connected his principles of nonviolence, equality, and human dignity to ongoing efforts toward societal transformation. This event underscored the library’s vital role as a space for reflection on South Africa’s history and its relevance to current struggles for equality and justice, reaffirming its dedication to fostering intellectual and community engagement.
Promoting literacy and cultural sustainability
On 10 September 2024, LIS, in partnership with Puku Children’s Literature Foundation, launched an innovative ONIX-based portal designed to expand access to children’s books in all South African languages. This initiative aligns with Unisa’s goals to foster literacy and preserve Indigenous languages. By improving access to diverse children’s literature, the Unisa LIS supports a literate, culturally aware society, marking a significant milestone in its mission to celebrate cultural diversity and promote inclusive education.
Engaging with contemporary scholarship
On 1 November 2024, the Unisa LIS hosted the launch of The 1840 Translation of the Gospel of Luke as a Technology of Power: A Decolonial Reflection by Professor Itumeleng D Mothoagae. This work examines the translation of religious texts as a colonial tool and considers its implications for African identity and spirituality. Engaging discussions among scholars emphasised the relevance of the book to contemporary academic and cultural conversations, reflecting LIS’s commitment to promoting transformative research that challenges and enriches scholarly perspectives.
Exploring global governance
On 14 November 2024, LIS launched Professor Paul Zilungisele Tembe’s latest book, Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance, which explores China’s political structure, history, and global influence. This work contributes to academic discussions on global governance, illustrating LIS’s support for diverse perspectives within international scholarship.
Advocating for widowhood awareness
LIS will conclude the year with the 5 December 2024 launch of Widowhood Issues in South Africa (WISA), a debut publication raising awareness about the challenges faced by widows. This event reinforces LIS’s role as a centre for addressing pressing social issues, bringing together scholars, community members, and advocates to highlight the need for comprehensive support systems for widows. Through this launch, LIS emphasises its commitment to inclusive research and community engagement. This initiative aligns with one of the catalytic niche areas, bosadi and womanhood, further highlighting the LIS's dedication to exploring and advocating for gendered experiences.
A growing role in academic and cultural engagement
The book launches are more than celebratory events; they underscore the role of LIS as a critical institution for scholarship and knowledge dissemination. By hosting these events, LIS fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and academic inquiry that extend beyond the campus. LIS remains at the forefront of academic development in South Africa, acting as a beacon for the preservation of cultural heritage and the engagement with global scholarship.
In 2024, through its impactful book launches, LIS has continued to advance knowledge, foster intellectual dialogue, and celebrate cultural heritage. LIS’s commitment to these values solidifies its role as a nurturing space for academic scholarship, ensuring that diverse voices shape the global academic community.
* By Itumeleng Mpete, Marketing Officer, LIS
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