We are delighted to announce that the 17th Stellenbosch University Library Symposium will take place from 20 to 22 October 2026 in Stellenbosch, South Africa. 

The 2026 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. Retiring at the end of 2026, Ellen’s career has been distinguished by outstanding achievements and visionary leadership. 

A pioneering figure in the profession, Ellen was the founding President of the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) and later became the 17th President of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)—only the second African to hold this prestigious position Past Presidents – IFLA. Her visionary leadership and global contributions have earned her numerous honours, including the SALI Trust–LIASA Lifetime Achievement Award (2023), the Stellenbosch University Chancellor’s Award, and recognition as both an IFLA Honorary Fellow and LIASA Honorary Member. 

We look forward to welcoming colleagues and friends from across the world to Stellenbosch for this memorable symposium and celebration. 

For more information, please contact Marié Roux, Tel: +27 21 8082870.