UCT Libraries urgently needs volunteers

Dear students and colleagues

Since late last week, volunteers across the University of Cape Town (UCT) have helped to recover 50% of the archival materials housed within the Jagger Reading Room, which was destroyed by fire on Sunday, 18 April. UCT Libraries urgently needs more volunteers to help salvage the remaining 50% of the collection. Shifts are available from 08:00 to 13:00 and 13:00 to 18:00 from today until Sunday, 9 May. It is important to register in advance, as limited spaces are available for each shift and you will need to show a confirmation email to security upon arrival.

• Register as a volunteer to help salvage the priceless African Studies Collection and other materials at UCT Libraries

This is a completely volunteer position with no paid remuneration. Parking is available on campus.

All work will take place on a construction site so it is essential to wear sturdy closed shoes for safety. Hard hats will be made available to volunteers and will be sanitised after each shift. All COVID-19 protocols will be observed. Please do not come if you have any symptoms, however mild, that could be possible COVID-19, or if you have had contact in the past 10 days with anyone with confirmed COVID-19 or possible symptoms. as you could be putting others at risk.

Volunteers are asked to bring:

• a pen;
• gloves if you have them;
• head lamps if you have them;
• sunblock as you might be exposed to sun for long periods of time during the shift;
• if there was rain before your shift, bringing old towels and rags to assist with drying crates would be most helpful.

If you cannot work a volunteer shift, there are other ways to support the Jagger Library Recovery:

• Offer assistance
• Send a message of support
• Make a financial donation
• Read the VC Desk: Recognising the loss of the Jagger Reading Room

Thank you for your help.

Communication and Marketing Department

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements