This symposium will be a special occasion to celebrate the outstanding career of Ellen Tise, who has served as Senior Director of the Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service since 2006 and will be retiring at the end of 2026. 

The symposium theme - Be BOLD: The Next Chapter of Academic Libraries - underscores the importance of challenging conventions, embracing innovation, and advancing open and inclusive knowledge practices. Positioned at the intersection of scholarship, technology and AI-driven discoveries, and community, academic libraries are uniquely placed to champion digital transformation, cultivate inclusive learning environments, and strengthen the research ecosystem. 

Participants are invited to submit proposals for presentations that are aligned with the theme and/or subthemes. A range of contributions, including research papers, case studies and practice-based reports are welcomed. Abstract submissions close on 5 June 2026, with further details available on the symposium website.

The symposium website has additional information about the venue, sub-themes and accommodation options and information will be added as it becomes available. For more information, contact Marié Roux at Tel: +27 21 8082870.

Adding to the week’s activities and building on the success of the inaugural Figshare User Group Conference, hosted in partnership with Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service, Digital Science will return to Stellenbosch University on 19–20 October 2026, immediately prior to the Symposium. Now a Digital Science event, the meeting will remain a forum for the Figshare community to engage, share ideas and connect with peers. There will also be an opportunity to learn about other Digital Science tools in use across South African universities. Digital Science will issue the invitations to this event in due course.