South African Library Week 2026


South African Library Week Programme

UWC Library
16–20 March 2026
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Monday, 16 March 2026

Official Opening & MyLOFT Launch

Time: 11:30 – 13:30
Venue: UWC Library

Join us for the official opening of South African Library Week at UWC Library, featuring the launch of the MyLOFT App, a powerful new tool designed to enhance your access to academic resources.

The programme will include:

  • A special opening address by the UWC Rector: Professor Robert Balfour
  • A live demonstration of the MyLOFT platform
  • Insights from the MyLOFT (UKS) representative
  • An opportunity to ask questions and interact with the presenters

Come celebrate the start of Library Week and discover how new digital tools can support your academic journey.

Click HERE for more info.

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Tuesday, 17 March 2026

uKwazi Crash Course & Research Ready Sessions

Time: 12:00 – 14:00

Boost your academic skills with our quick, practical research sessions designed to help you succeed in your studies.

These interactive drop-in sessions will cover:

  • How to find credible academic sources
  • Referencing essentials
  • Strategies for avoiding plagiarism
  • How to use library research platforms effectively
  • Demonstrations of key research tools and databases

Click HERE to register.

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Wednesday, 18 March 2026

Creative & Scholarly Expression Day

Time: 13:00 – 14:00

In partnership with the Faculty of Arts and Humanities Student Representative Council (SFRC) and the Writing Centre, the library invites students to take part in a Creative Expression Open Mic Session.

Students are welcome to share:

  • Poetry
  • Short readings
  • Creative reflections

Selected performances will be featured in a special edition of the Open Mic Journal.

Click HERE to register.

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Thursday, 19 March 2026

Silent Reading Session

Time: 13:00 – 14:00
Location: Lawn between A & B Block / Writing Centre Lab

Take a break from the busy semester and join us for a peaceful outdoor reading experience.

This session will feature:

  • A quiet communal reading space
  • A bring-your-own-book format
  • A short reflection and reading circle at the end

Hosted in partnership with the UWC Writing Centre.

Click HERE to register.

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Friday, 20 March 2026

AI and Academic Integrity Workshop

Time: 12:30 – 14:00
Format: Online (Zoom)

Explore responsible AI use in academic work through a practical introduction to the Generative AI Acceptable Use Scale, adapted from Leon Furze’s framework.

This session will explore:

  • How AI tools are being used in academic contexts
  • Different levels of AI use in assignments and research
  • Approaches to responsible and ethical AI engagement

Open to students, postgraduate researchers, and academic staff interested in understanding responsible AI use in academic work.

Click HERE to register.

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Extended Activities

FYE Scavenger Hunt: Discover Your Library

Throughout the week, first-year students are invited to take part in a Library Scavenger Hunt designed to help you explore key library services and spaces.

Participants will:

  • Discover important library service points
  • Learn about research tools and support services
  • Explore how to access academic resources effectively

Click HERE for more info.

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AI Skills Challenge

Open to: All UWC Staff and Students
Closing Date: Friday, 27 March 2026 at 16h00

Test your knowledge of responsible AI use and build skills for the digital world of work and study by participating in the AI Skills Challenge 2026.

How it works:

  • Complete a short AI literacy quiz
  • Submit your contact details to confirm participation
  • Review the correct answers after the challenge closes

The challenge takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and helps inform future Library AI literacy initiatives.

Click HERE to participate.