NWU Library and Information Service News - LibGuides at North-West University

Empowering distance students: NWU librarians embed Information Literacy at Royal Bafokeng Institute

02/13/2025

Education, Undergraduate Support, News

On 12 February 2025, librarians from the NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus Library had the opportunity to visit the Learning Support Centre at the Royal Bafokeng Institute (RBI) in Rustenburg. This center serves as a vital support hub for NWU Distance Education students, providing them with essential resources and guidance to succeed in their academic journey.

The visit aimed to equip Education distance students with crucial library and research skills, ensuring they can effectively access and utilize academic resources. The eager group of students embraced the opportunity to enhance their research abilities, making the training session a resounding success.

The session covered several key concepts designed to strengthen students' academic and research skills:

Databases and Academic Resources – Mr. Moloto provided in-depth training on navigating electronic databases and academic publications, helping students locate credible and relevant scholarly materials.
Referencing – Miss Vilakazi emphasized the importance of proper referencing and citation, guiding students on maintaining academic integrity in their assignments.
Library Overview and AI Ethics – Mr. Ramabina introduced students to NWU library services and led an insightful session on AI ethics. His discussion sparked engaging debates on the role of artificial intelligence in academia while advising students on NWU's AI ethics policies and guidelines.

The students were actively engaged and expressed their gratitude for the training, eager to apply their newly acquired knowledge in their studies. Their enthusiasm highlighted the value of continued support and learning opportunities, and they are already looking forward to the next session.

By Xolile Vilakazi

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Welcoming NWU First-Year students: A vibrant library orientation across all campuses

02/11/2025

Kelebohile Kurtis Setai (Temp)

Undergraduate Support, Staff News

The North-West University (NWU) kicked off the 2025 academic year with dynamic and engaging orientation events across its three campuses - Potchefstroom, Vanderbijlpark, and Mahikeng. The Library and Information Service (LIS) teams played a pivotal role in ensuring first-year students felt welcomed, informed, and prepared for their academic journey.

Potchefstroom Campus: interactive learning and fun activities

On Monday, 3 February 2025, the NWU Potchefstroom Campus hosted two engaging orientation sessions at Building F14 (Amphitheatre). First-year students from various residences eagerly participated in learning about the Library and Information Service offerings.

The first session at 15:30 welcomed students from Dinki, Villagers, Heide, De Wilgers, Eikenhof, Ratau Lebone, Hombré, Vergeet-My-Nie, Over de Voor, Klawerhof, and Private Student Groups. The second session at 16:30 included Bellatrix, Patria, Huis Republiek, Caput, Heimat, Minjonet, LaVaria, Invictus, Laureus, Karlien, Excelsior, Kasteel, Wag-‘n-Bietjie, Veritas, Wanda, Dennedorp, Soetdorings, Oosterhof, and Private Students.

Various LIS staff conducted informative presentations on loan services, information and learning resources, and a virtual tour of the Ferdinand-Postma Library and its branches. The event ended on a high note with fun activities, including a dance challenge, a poetry narration contest in different mother tongues, and an engaging pop quiz session.

Vanderbijlpark Campus: taking the library to the students

Over the weekend of 31 January to 2 February 2025, the Vanderbijlpark Campus LIS team launched an innovative programme to meet and greet first-year students in a special way.

Rather than waiting for students to come to the library, the team took the initiative to go to student residences to ensure that new students feel welcome both academically and socially. The team visited different student residences as part of embedded librarianship.

Students had an opportunity engage during Q&A session. A library master quiz was also held, which helped them to understand library services and resources better. Students actively participated and enjoyed the friendly environment and giveaways. This was only the first part of the Vanderbijlpark Campus library orientation. The commitment of the team to improving students' academic experiences reflects LIS library's vision. Furthermore, the LIS team also participated in the official orientation programme, offering insight to 1st-year students at Tsebonekeng Hall. This was alter followed by library tours, providing students an opportunity to familiarise themselves with library spaces and facilities.

Mahikeng Campus: A large-scale orientation with a personal touch

On February 3, 2025, the NWU Mahikeng Campus Library hosted a dynamic First-Year Orientation to introduce 2,384 new students to library services. The event was a collaborative effort involving representatives from Information Services, Loan Services, and Information Resources, spread across three venues with informative PowerPoint presentations covering library access, membership, spaces, and a virtual tour.

To create an engaging atmosphere, interactive activities such as dance competitions and a Readathon were incorporated, with prizes awarded to active participants. The orientation emphasised the library’s role in supporting students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and academic empowerment. Faculty attendance included EMS (671), Education (370), FNAS (343), Health Sciences (209), Humanities (611), Law (172), and Theology (8).

A united commitment to academic success

Across all three campuses, the LIS teams demonstrated their dedication to equipping first-year students with the information needed for academic excellence. Through interactive sessions, personalised engagements, and fun activities, the LIS continues to foster a supportive environment where students can thrive. As the 2025 academic year unfolds, the LIS remain steadfast in learning, research, and collaboration, ensuring that all students feel empowered and ready to embark on their educational journey.

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