According to Jacomi Castro, Head of Library Services at the Campus, a book is like a best friend who will never walk away from you. She explained the importance of books, saying they give us insight into stories and lives we otherwise wouldn't be able to experience, they can bring communities together and access to books can improve the circumstances of people no matter where they are.
Forster Shiviti, Divisional Head of Education at the prison, commended the Campus for its generous donation and highlighted the impact it has had on inmates. “Life in prison can be challenging for inmates and we encourage them to use their time productively through reading and engaging in further studies. The Department therefore participates in a number programs aimed at promoting reading among the inmates. One of these is called the National Funda Mzansi programme.”
Prison Librarian, Paulinah Mnguni, added; “This donation will greatly assist in making resources available to inmates. With a number of inmates currently busy improving their qualifications, initiatives like this bring hope and give them motivation. We hope that this donation will open doors for future initiatives and possibly a partnership with the university.”
Contact person for more information: Jacomi Castro, Head of Library Services, eMalahleni Campus: Office hours: +27 13 653 3116.