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Every year on 10 July, South African Librarians’ Day (SALD) is celebrated. A day dedicated to recognising the remarkable contribution of librarians and library and information professionals to education, research, innovation and community development.

More than simply celebrating a profession, South African Librarians’ Day acknowledges the individuals who connect people with knowledge, empower communities through information, and help build an informed, democratic and inclusive society.

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The significance of 10 July lies in the history of the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA). On this day in 1997, LIASA was established as the unified professional association representing South Africa’s library and information services (LIS) sector.

Its formation marked a defining moment for the profession, bringing together diverse library associations under one representative organisation with a shared vision of advancing libraries, advocating for equitable access to information, promoting professional excellence, and strengthening the role of libraries in South African society.

Since then, LIASA has championed the interests of library and information professionals while positioning libraries as key contributors to national development.

The role of librarians has evolved dramatically over the past three decades. While libraries continue to preserve and provide access to books and other information resources, today’s librarians are also educators, research partners and contributors, technology facilitators, digital literacy trainers, knowledge managers and community leaders. 

In today’s digital environment, where information is generated at unprecedented speed, the ability to identify trustworthy and credible sources has become increasingly important. Librarians are uniquely positioned to help individuals navigate this complex information landscape.

They teach information literacy, promote critical thinking, combat misinformation and guide users in the responsible and ethical use of information. These skills have become indispensable as society increasingly depends on digital technologies for learning, communication and decision-making.

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The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) represents one of the most significant technological developments of our time, and libraries are embracing its potential to enhance service delivery while ensuring that people remain at the centre of knowledge creation and learning.

AI-powered discovery systems, intelligent search tools, automated metadata generation, multilingual translation technologies, research assistants and personalised learning platforms are transforming how libraries organise, manage and provide access to information. Rather than replacing librarians, these technologies are enabling them to deliver more efficient, responsive and user-centred services.

At the same time, AI presents new challenges that require professional guidance. Questions surrounding information integrity, algorithmic bias, copyright, privacy, ethics and the responsible use of generative AI are becoming increasingly relevant within educational institutions and communities.

Librarians have emerged as trusted guides in helping users understand both the opportunities and limitations of AI.

They assist students, researchers and community members in using AI responsibly, evaluating AI-generated content critically, protecting personal information and maintaining academic integrity. As misinformation and synthetic content become more prevalent, the human expertise of librarians has never been more valuable.

For many South Africans, particularly those in underserved communities, libraries remain the primary gateway to digital inclusion and equitable access to information and technology. The contribution of libraries extends far beyond education. They support economic participation by helping job seekers access employment opportunities and develop digital skills. They preserve South Africa’s rich documentary and cultural heritage for future generations.

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They foster social cohesion by providing safe, inclusive spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can learn, collaborate and engage in meaningful dialogue. In doing so, libraries contribute directly to national development priorities and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those relating to quality education, reduced inequalities, innovation, strong institutions and lifelong learning.

South African Librarians’ Day also celebrates the dedication and resilience of the professionals behind these achievements. Librarians often work quietly behind the scenes, yet their impact is felt every day in classrooms, universities, schools, public libraries, government departments, businesses and communities across the country. Their commitment to service, lifelong learning and equitable access to knowledge continues to transform lives and create opportunities for millions of South Africans.

As South Africa celebrates another South African Librarians’ Day, we honour not only the proud history of our profession but also its exciting future. On this South African Librarians’ Day, let us celebrate the professionals who continue to inspire curiosity, empower communities and strengthen our democracy through knowledge.

As technology continues to reshape our world, one truth remains constant: libraries matter, librarians matter, and together they will continue to shape a more informed, connected and resilient South Africa.

*Charlie Molepo is a qualified librarian, educator, and assessor.