Librarian's have a duty to increase their awareness in as many areas as possible, so that they can stimulate the thought processes of visitors to their library. They should also be humble enough to be open-minded in such a way that they can learn from others - including their pupils.

That is one of the reasons why I found Jason's talk so excellent. He made us aware of how precarious the position of MOTHER EARTH is, how her very survival - and therefore ours - is seriously threatened. Though the picture he presented was very bleak indeed, he also showed how there are natural solutions that we can use to change the scary situation we find ourselves living in.

One extra-ordinary thing he taught us was about the value of FLIES in solving many of our problems. Yes! The common FLY has an important place in the scheme of things. It lays its eggs and the larvae which hatch secrete an antibiotic which can be utilised. Jason referred to Napoleon's troops in his discovery of this interesting fact. His generals could not understand why the wounded soldiers that had had their wounds exposed to flies seemed to recover faster than those who had their wounds cleaned straight away.

He also explained how "FLY FARMS" can be used to replace fish meal as a food source for chickens etc.

It is so important to allow ourselves to be excited by discovery of new things. That is what keeps us delighted to be alive!

A library helps us to do this.

Image by: https://blogs.libraries.iub.edu/ 

Nicholas Hall - illuminating, scary, reassuring talk.

Cathy's presentation from Wednesday.

It was the Best of Times (ISASA) from Cathy Oxley

When you click here, you will be able to see the slide share of her presentation. Thanks Cathy!

Jason Drew gave a great presentation on the importance of getting back in touch with nature - be smart about doing less damage - work towards human and agricultural health.

Paradox for Headmasters and Principals of Schools

Cathy was one of the keynote speakers on Day 1 of the Librarian's Conference and spoke excellently on issues that 21st century librarians face today. What was really interesting was a particular issue of what headmaster's face, especially in school's that are well-resourced, the paradox of knowing you have to change, when you know you're ahead.

We are building our youth to become not "college-ready but innovation ready".  Premier Zille addressed the conference, challenging Librarians to continue their work in making South African youth become information literate saying that communication, collaboration and technology are all key components to doing this.  There is importance in creating a knowledge-based economy.

Premier Zille engaged the librarians during question time and was proactive in hearing problems and suggesting solutions.