‘A safe space when the outside world gets too loud’

DURING 2022, our academic year at CPUT was conducted online. We were not exposed to the physical library most of the time and had to use the online library which is equipped with everything we need and has everything in one place, but the feel of a physical library was not there. While the online library is very helpful and efficient, I was curious as to how the library at campus would be. At times we would have group assignments and always agreed to meet at the library. times like these were exciting because the library was a place where we could actually see each other as the assignment was an excuse to come to campus. the library is a place of connectivity and had a sense of “home”, making you feel comfortable while working. the seating arrangements, especially, created togetherness and information was on hand. on a particular day, we decided to use the seminar rooms which were very accommodating for our presentations and everything went well, until a few days later when I received an email stating that we did not return the seminar room key, which confused me because my group and I did exactly that.

After getting a few emails which caused me much anxiety, I eventually went to the library and asked for assistance. I was met with a friendly face and someone helpful who apologised on behalf of the library; it was a mistake and not to worry. to most this may seem like a negative experience, but really this has changed my life knowing I can always ask for assistance and the library serves as a safe space when the outside world gets too loud.

- Zaakiyah Florence