On 4 March 2021, the library on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus launched new additions to its undergraduate student commons. 

According to Tiyani Mabunda, the director for open scholarship, the new additions include a 24-hour study area with 178 seats equipped with power points which will enhance the current undergraduate study commons.

Furthermore, five new collaboration rooms with white boards and LED screens are now available for group study. The 119 computer workstations in the rooms also have additional power plugs and patch points.

“All the areas have Wi-Fi and provide optimal access to users with disabilities,” he adds.

Dr Matthew Moyo, chief director of Library and Information Services, says the new revamped facilities offering spaces for individual and collaborative study are in line with the library’s aim to build student social capital and enhances information transfer, knowledge creation and accumulation.

Amohelang Mohajane, curator of the NWU Art Gallery, says a number of art works are also on display in the library to brighten up the spaces. She says this collaboration between the gallery and library is a step in the right direction.

“We are happy that the library is moving with the times and ensuring that teaching and learning and research and community engagement are well taken care of,” says Prof Marilyn Setlalentoa, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations.

“We want the community to benefit from our knowledge, and the library plays a critical role in making sure that students acquire knowledge and implement everything they learn.”

The library on the Mahikeng Campus now boasts various new additions to its undergraduate student commons, including a 24-hour study area with 178 seats.