Last week, South Africa marked South African Library Week (16–22 March 2026) under the theme “Reclaiming Knowledge, Empowering Futures.” This national celebration highlights the critical role libraries play in promoting access to information, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting education in a rapidly changing world. At a time when misinformation, digital inequality, and declining reading habits are becoming more visible, libraries are positioned as vital spaces for learning, inclusion, and empowerment. Yet, despite this recognition, the state of libraries in South Africa raises important concerns especially regarding whether young people are still engaging with reading in meaningful ways.

Last week, South Africa marked South African Library Week (16&ndash;22 March 2026) under the theme &ldquo;Reclaiming Knowledge, Empowering Futures.&rdquo; This national celebration highlights the critical role libraries play in promoting access to information, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting education in a rapidly changing world. At a time when misinformation, digital inequality, and declining reading habits are becoming more visible, libraries are positioned as vital spaces for learning, inclusion, and empowerment. Yet, despite this recognition, the state of libraries in South Africa raises important concerns especially regarding whether young people are still engaging with reading in meaningful ways.

At POWER 98.7 we invite you to join the conversation on every platform. Browse this selection of podcasts. Now we're talking.

At POWER 98.7 we invite you to join the conversation on every platform. Browse this selection of podcasts. Now we're talking.

The best of POWER Zone

After the day’s heavy conversations, POWER Zone tapers down the momentum with long format, reflective and insightful conversations. The show allows for those retiring for the day to take time to reflect on the day’s experiences. Those whose day begins at this time will enjoy the calm pace and amazing insights from the POWER listeners. The discussions, curated by guest hosts, are nuanced and explore a myriad of matters affecting the country, continent and the diaspora with customised themes on Africa, the youth, societal issues and the arts.

After the day&rsquo;s heavy conversations, POWER Zone tapers down the momentum with long format, reflective and insightful conversations. The show allows for those retiring for the day to take time to reflect on the day&rsquo;s experiences. Those whose day begins at this time will enjoy the calm pace and amazing insights from the POWER listeners. The discussions, curated by guest hosts, are nuanced and explore a myriad of matters affecting the country, continent and the diaspora with customised themes on Africa, the youth, societal issues and the arts.