The North-West University Library and Information Service (NWU LIS) bids a fond farewell to Ms Nontobeko Mahlalela. Two sessions were organized by the Research and Open Scholarship Services (ROSS) team. A virtual session included the ROSS team across the three NWU LIS campuses, followed by a lunch with Ms Mahlalela at the Broken Pot restaurant in Potchefstroom. Various speakers shared profound farewell messages, highlighting her passion, positive attitude, and professionalism as a valued team player. "I described her as an emerging giant in the Research and Open Scholarship environment," stated Mr. Martin Nokoane, Manager of Research and Learning Services Manager. Ms Mahlalela made significant contributions to the recent successes and achievements of ROSS. While it was emotional to say goodbye to a colleague of her calibre, we understand that pursuing her dreams comes first. Ms Mahlalela joined the NWU LIS team on the 1st of March 2021 and served as a Research Librarian in ROSS. She will be sincerely missed, and the NWU LIS wishes her all the best in her new adventures.
We look forward to hearing about her continued success.
By Martin Nokoane
Farewell to the Manager of Information Resources and Senior Librarian of Cataloguing
The Library and Information Service (LIS) Department bid a heartfelt farewell to the two esteemed staff members, Ntobeko Sikhakhane and Kholofelo Makola.
“For three years at the NWU LIS, since July 2021, your tenure has been characterised by your dedication and visionary approach. Ntobeko has not only managed the Information Resources section but has also significantly elevated it.” says Neli Tshabalala, Director of Shared Services.
His role has been multifaceted and demanding in liaising with book and database suppliers to ensure the best resources available, managing the budget with exceptional care and precision, and managing cross campus teams within the Information Resources section. He has been the bridge between other entities, the Research and Open Scholarship and Information and Learning services’ needs and the ever-evolving world of knowledge resources, ensuring that all requirements were met while maintaining strong professional relationships with the LIS partners.
The stewardship of managing the information resources budget is commendable, balancing the need to expand and strengthening the collections with fiscal responsibility. Ntobeko has been resourceful, especially in times when resources were stretched thin, with the ability to motivate additional funding support. His management went beyond tasks and responsibilities as he cultivated a sense of collaboration and nurtured other staff members’ career paths.
Kholofelo Makola joined the NWU LIS in November 2021 as a Cataloguing Librarian and, through her dedication and expertise, advanced to a Senior Librarian position within a year. Her tenure at NWU has been marked by an unwavering passion for the cataloguing area and a strong commitment to mentoring aspiring cataloguers.
Notably, Kholofelo developed a comprehensive training manual for cataloguing, a resource that has greatly benefited many LIS staff members pursuing their Bachelor of Information Science degrees. Her contributions to the professional growth and development of her colleagues have left an indelible mark on the department.
As both colleagues move forward into their next endeavours, their legacy will live on. The LIS team extend the deepest gratitude for your invaluable contributions to NWU. You will be sorely missed, not only for your professional excellence but also for your kindness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication.
We wish them all the very best in their future endeavours. May the road ahead be filled with new adventures, continued success, and great strides they will undoubtedly make in their careers.
Contribution by Director: Shared Services – Neli Tshabalala