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We are delighted to invite you to join us for the 2025 Library Research Week, which will take place from 12–16 May, under the theme 'Let’s Partner for Research Impact.' The week will feature a variety of activities designed to enrich the research process and boost research impact through collaboration and partnerships. The event will kick off on 12 May 2025 from 15:30–16:30, with our distinguished guest speaker, Professor Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela, the Research Chair in Studies in Historical Trauma and Transformation at Stellenbosch University. Don't miss out, save the date!
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| These workshops are aimed at postgraduate students, emerging researchers and academic staff and the focus will be on the research process. The sessions vary in length depending on the subject matter but cover a wide range of subjects related to the postgraduate research journey. | Systematic Reviews Thinking about doing a systematic review? Having its origins in health sciences, a systematic review can be a daunting challenge. Let us help you demystify it and get started with a high-level introduction to the systematic review process. Date: 4 March Time: 11:00 – 13:00 Register Here | Systematic Reviews for Medicine and Health Sciences Thinking about doing a systematic review? Having its origins in health sciences, a systematic review can be a daunting challenge. Let us help you demystify it and get started with a high-level introduction to the systematic review process. Date: 4 March Time: 11:00 – 13:00 Register Here | Library induction for postgraduate students and academic staff In this introductory session, participants will be provided with an overview of the core services on offer by Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service. Topics include navigating the Library Website, how to find their way around the Stellenbosch University Library, how to find information through the Library's numerous databases, what advanced research support services are available and many others. Date: 5 March Time: 10:00 – 13:00 Register Here | Tools and applications for research This workshop will offer a look at some of the top tools and applications for students, academic staff, and researchers. It will cover a variety of mobile apps for research, productivity, reading, writing, presenting, note-taking, file sharing and other essential tools for studying and publishing on the go. Date: 6 March Time: 11:00 – 13:00 Register Here | Finding Government Statistics This workshop focuses on the database Statistics SA which is available by means of the Library website. The session includes a demonstration on how to access publications on the database, do cross-tabulation and access time series data with variables over time. Date: 11 March Time: 11:00 – 13:00 Register Here | Managing your unique author identity with ORCID ORCID is an open, non-profit, community-driven effort to create and maintain a registry of unique researcher identifiers and a transparent method of linking research activities and outputs to these identifiers. This workshop will explain what ORCID is, how to register and populate your profiles. Date: 11 March Time: 14:00 – 15:00 Register Here | SunDMP (SU data management tool) for data management plan creation The workshop will help participants learn how to effectively use SunDMP, Stellenbosch University's data management planning tool. The workshop will guide participants through creating comprehensive data management plans that align with institutional policies, funding requirements, and best practices. Date: 12 March Time: 14:00 – 15:00 Register Here | Copyright issues in theses and dissertation writing This presentation provides an overview of the copyright issues which students typically encounter while working on their theses or dissertations. Date: 13 March Time: 12:00 – 13:00 Register Here | EndNote for reference management EndNote 21 offers various services, including reference management, organising and annotation of PDF documents and collaboration. In this session, we will show you how to download and install EndNote and how to set up your account. Kindly note that a separate workshop is available for users who need assistance in migrating from Mendeley/Zotero to EndNote. Date: 18 March Time: 14:00 – 16:00 Register Here | Making important decisions about publishing your research This hands-on session covers important factors to help you decide where to publish your research. Making the right choices can increase readership and citations, diminish publication lag and ensure that your publication is eligible for government subsidy. Date: 19 March Time: 10:00 – 13:00 Register Here | Tips on how to format your thesis (MS Word) This workshop will help you work around some of the common formatting glitches most postgraduate students experience, whilst getting their document ready for submission. Date: 19 March Time: 14:00 – 16:00 Register Here | Principles of Data Visualisation This workshop will cover the key principles to keep in mind when you are planning your visualisations, from choosing the best visualisation type for your data to the effective use of colour, narrative, etc. Date: 25 March Time: 11:00 – 12:30 Register Here | An overview of SUNScholarData – the SU institutional data repository Many funders mandate that data collected in the process of conducting research funded by them is deposited in reputable repositories, this workshop will provide an overview of research data repositories and demonstrate the manner in which the SU's Institutional Research Data Repository functions. Date: 25 March Time: 14:00 – 16:00 Register Here | Introduction to Research Data Management (RDM) and Data Management Plans (DMP) This workshop introduces researchers to the fundamental ideas of research data management (RDM). The session will cover the SU RDM regulation, ethical considerations, external funding requirements, and the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) that govern good data management. Date: 26 March Time: 11:00 – 13:00 Register Here |
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Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service, one of the leading advocates for Open Access (OA), invites you to the second webinar in its #BeOpenAccessSmart series. The early 2000s saw a peak in OA advocacy with various international bodies issuing declarations to promote unrestricted access to scholarly knowledge. Since then, the benefits of OA for research and society have become increasingly evident—enhancing scholarly impact through greater visibility and citation advantages, upholding the right to access information, and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More recently, there has been growing recognition of OA's potential to enable transdisciplinarity (TD) by bridging gaps between academia, industry, NGOs, and society at large. This webinar will explore the role of Open Access in facilitating TD research and fostering societal impact. Dr Heide Hackmann (Chair in Science Futures, Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science, and Technology) will lead the discussion in a session titled:
“Open to Society: Pursuing Research Impact in a Contemporary Global Context." Join us as we examine how Open Access and knowledge accessibility can drive transformative research and contribute to a sustainable future. Date: 27 March 2025, 12:00-13:00 (SAST) Speaker: Dr Heide Hackmann (Chair in Science Futures, Centre for Research on Evaluation Science and Technology), Stellenbosch University.
Registration:
Click the following link to register for the webinar: https://sun.ac.za.libcal.com/event/14209561
Registered participants will receive a Teams meeting link and reminder emails. For further information: contact Sakhile Mngomezulu | tel: 021 808 9907 |
| We are excited to announce new additions to our A-Z Database. These resources provide access to cutting-edge tools and content across a variety of fields: APA PsycTESTS
PsycTESTS from the American Psychological Association (APA) a one-of-a-kind database of psychological tests and measures designed for use with social and behavioral science research. JoVE Education with complimentary access to JoVE Research and JoVE Business JoVE is the world-leading producer and provider of science videos with the mission to improve scientific research and education. Millions of scientists, educators, and students at thousands of universities, colleges, hospitals, and biopharmaceutical companies worldwide use JoVE for their research, teaching, and learning. Africa Commons: Black South African Magazines
This collection is not just about digitising out-of-copyright magazines—it is about reconnecting South Africans with their heritage while making these invaluable resources accessible to researchers, educators, and the global community. SciFinder upgrade to SciFinder Discovery CAS SciFinder Discovery Platform incorporates the following solutions: CAS SciFinder, CAS Formulus and CAS Analytical Methods. Accelerate game-changing discoveries with best-in-class solutions that simplify how you find and connect critical information, such as scientific data, methods, formulations, and more—human-curated for quality and completeness. SYNTHIA™
All first-time users need to complete the self-registration – Register now RETROSYNTHESIS Software SYNTHIA is a professional design tool. What makes it special is that it is 'expert-coded' with all the rules of organic chemistry as we have learned them (there are over 120,000 of them). SYNTHIA takes into account protective groups if required, regio- and stereochemistry, as well as electronic effects. SAAZ (Skryf Afrikaans van A tot Z). It is part of the Pharos platform. This style guide: addresses different possible language-related choices; discusses contemporary word preferences and language use; contains an important new section on how to compile a housestyle guide; focuses on writing reader-friendly Afrikaans texts. Times Higher Education (THE) - The THE World University Rankings provide the definitive list of the world's best universities, with an emphasis on the research mission.
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Struggling to find the right information? We’ve got you covered!
From: 10 – 14 February 2025 Time: 09:00 – 15:00 Where: Stellenbosch University Library (after the turnstiles, near the printers)
Our expert librarians will be available to help you refine your search skills and access reliable sources. Whether you’re working on an assignment, conducting research, or simply want to level up your information literacy, we’re here to assist!
Why join us?
✅Learn how to find trustworthy information quickly and efficiently.
✅Get hands-on guidance tailored to your needs.
✅Drop in at any time—no appointment needed!
Don’t miss this opportunity to boost your research skills and #GetSmart! See you there.
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You
are invited to join us for these two important workshops.
The first
focuses on the new Thesis Management platform where supervisors/promotors are
expected to submit their students' theses and dissertations.
The second workshop is highly recommended for all staff and postgraduate students who are new at Stellenbosch University. | Thesis management for the submission of theses and dissertations for graduation
This
workshop will focus on the new SUNStudent platform, Thesis Management.
It is designed for staff and will focus on the functioning and use of
Thesis management. The workshop will serve as a practical guidance for
those staff whose students are ready for graduation. For SU staff only
Date: Wed, 12 February Time: 11:00 – 12:00 Register Here | Library induction for postgraduate students and academic staff
In
this introductory session, participants will be provided with an
overview of the core services on offer by Stellenbosch University
Library and Information Service. Topics include navigating the Library
Website, how to find their way around the Stellenbosch University
Library, how to find information through the Library's numerous
databases, what advanced research support services are available and
many others. Date: Thu, 13 February Time: 10:00 – 13:00 Register Here
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| After nearly four decades of service, the Bellville Park Campus Library (USBL) will officially close its doors as a branch library at the end of 2024. This decision, made by Library Management in collaboration with the Bellville Park Campus (BPC) Committee, marks the end of an era and opens a new chapter for library services at the Stellenbosch Business School (SBS) and School of Public Leadership (SPL). USBL's journey began in 1986, when the Stellenbosch Business School (SBS) relocated to BPC. Initially known as USBI, the library started with a modest collection of printed materials and a dedicated team of two staff members. Through the years, the small “satellite" library became a proper branch library, moving from the second floor of the main SBS building to a new facility on the ground level in 2002, employing five staff members.
Bellville Park Campus Library
Henriëtte Swart: Director Branch Libraries who joined USBL in 1987, recalls the library's evolution fondly:
“It was a highlight when we opened the new USBL facility in 2002. The library became a hub for the full-time MBA students and the broader Bellville Park Campus community. Over the years, we received countless expressions of appreciation from students and faculty, and USBL was often highlighted in accreditation reports as a key contributor to academic success." In 2018, USBL was upgraded as part of the BPC renewal project. Work on the facility included new signage, a redesigned reception/information desk, two offices for the faculty librarians and a new staff room as well as mobile bookshelves to allow flexible use of the available space and comfortable seating options and study pods facilitate research, study and collaboration. Following the COVID-19 pandemic the physical library saw a significant decline in foot traffic. Before COVID, however, library services had become increasingly virtual. With this mind, discussions about the library's future had to be made. In October 2023, Library Management presented three scenarios to USBL management: maintaining the status quo (2023-2024 ), closing USBL (by the end of or after 2024), or continuation of a library and information service on BPC (after 2024). Following extensive consultation and analysis, the decision was made to close the physical library by the end of 2024 while maintaining a virtual professional library service.
Looking Ahead
Although the physical library will close, the academic community of Bellville Park Campus will continue to receive comprehensive library support. From January 2025, a small collection of 400 frequently used physical books will be retained on campus for borrowing. Additionally, SBS staff will assist with operational tasks such as document delivery, circulation, and interbranch requests. More importantly, the virtual library service will remain robust, ensuring seamless access to electronic resources, including databases, e-books, and e-journals. Faculty Librarian for Economic and Management Sciences, Judy Williams, based in the SU Library, will continue to provide virtual research support, training, and consultations, occasionally visiting the campus as needed. Judy Williams highlights the enduring connection between the library and the campus community: “The USBL staff were an integral part of the Bellville Park Campus community, attending academic meetings and social events. We hope to maintain this special relationship, even if it's remote."
Final thoughts
As USBL prepares to close its doors, it leaves behind a legacy of excellence, innovation, and community. From its early days as a small library with limited resources to its role as a vital academic support system, USBL has been a cornerstone of the Bellville Park Campus for nearly four decades. While the physical space will no longer be available, the library's commitment to supporting the academic and research needs of the campus remains unwavering. This transition represents not an end, but a transformation—one that embraces new ways of delivering knowledge and fostering academic success. For those who have walked its aisles, studied in its quiet corners, or benefited from its resources, USBL will always hold a special place in their hearts. Karel van der Molen, a long-time user of USBL, reflects: “USBL was more than just a library; it was a place for intellectual growth and personal connections. The staff's dedication and the library's human touch made it a cornerstone of the academic experience at Bellville Park Campus."
Staff of the Bellville Park Campus Library: Alna Marais, Judy Williams, Lizanne Botha, Henriëtte Swart, Nombulelo Magwebu-Mrali (2021) |
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The Library and Information Service's recent survey, Space use patterns and diversity, received 886 responses, 71% from undergraduate students. The Library thanks you for your participation which contributes to making the Library a better place for everyone. The online survey, which ran from 4 September to 4 October 2024, aimed to find out how often and why clients visit the SU libraries, what their preferred spaces and hours are, the extent of diversity and inclusion and satisfaction levels of clients. Some 27% of respondents visit the library daily, predominantly to study. In addition, over 69% of those who completed the survey are satisfied or very satisfied with the current physical library spaces, while over 79% are satisfied or very satisfied with the inclusivity at the library in terms of accommodating individuals from diverse backgrounds. While we are pleased with the high satisfaction levels overall, as a user-centred library, we remain concerned that 30% of respondents are either neutral or unsatisfied with our spaces. Likewise, we are attentive to the 20% of participants who feel that diversity within the library could be improved. Analysis of the goldmine of nearly 3 000 comments provided by respondents is underway. In other related news, we are thrilled to announce that three participants in the survey were selected through a lucky draw. Each received a voucher worth R1 500, to spend at a computer technology store. The winners were Misses Zenande Siqwana, Owam Nqamra and Anele Taumbe. Misses Siqwana and Taumbe were presented with their vouchers at the SU Library on 30 October, while Miss Nqamra received hers at the Medicine and Health Sciences Library on 8 November. Among others, the students shared that they use the library space to study, write, read for leisure, prepare for exams and to meet new friends.
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Theme: Community Over Commercialisation
Date: Thursday, 24 October 2024, 11:30-13:00 (SAST/CET)
Format: Hybrid (SU Library Auditorium & MS Teams)
Refreshments will be served for in-person attendees.
Panellists:
Mr Jeroen Sondervan, Programme Leader Open Scholarly Communication, Open Science NL at the Dutch Research Council (NWO) Dr Reggie Raju, Director, Research & Learning, University of Cape Town (UCT) Prof Marena Manley, Lecturer, Food Science, Stellenbosch University (SU)
Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service invites you to join us in celebrating International Open Access Week 2024. This year's theme, "Community over Commercialisation", highlights the critical importance of ensuring equitable access to research and knowledge for all. The theme emphasises the role that academic institutions and scholars play in advancing open access and promoting collaboration over commercial interest. At Stellenbosch University, we encourage the academic and research communities to prioritise open access initiatives that foster inclusivity, transparency and innovation in scholarly subscription-based journals and ensure that research is accessible to everyone, regardless of location or financial resources. Whether you are new to the concept of open access or a seasoned advocate, this event offers something for everyone. Join us as we explore the latest developments, exchange ideas and contribute to shaping a more open and equitable future for global scholarship.
For further information: Contact Sakhile Mngomezulu | tel: 021 808 9907
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| The Library is conducting an online survey on library space use patterns and diversity, which runs until 4 October 2024. The survey aims to identify the preferred spaces among you our SU library clients, assess your satisfaction with these spaces and the library hours, and determine the extent to which you perceive the library as reflecting diversity. The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Participation is entirely voluntary, and your responses will remain anonymous. By participating, you stand a chance to win one of three vouchers worth R1 500 each, redeemable at a computer technology store. To enter the lucky draw, simply provide your email address at the end of the survey. The draw will take place at the end of October. Complete our survey now and help us to make your Library even better! For further enquiries, contact Siviwe Bangani at sbangani@sun.ac.za or 021-808 4641.
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| No, this isn't actually my picture. I just haven't gotten around to updating this section. It's good to know that someone is reading every last word though. Thanks! |
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