Ferdinand Postma Library : keys to the past, gateway to the future

Abstract

Celebrating the cornerstone of knowledge – the Ferdinand Postma Library. The Ferdinand Postma Library on the Potchefstroom Campus of North-West University is celebrating its sixty-seventh anniversary this year. The cornerstone of the present library building was laid on Saturday 17 March 1951, while the library at that stage was located in the Old Main Building of the campus. This new building with its expansions and additions over the years has really become the heart of the campus. For many generations the Ferdinand Postma Library was, and will be for many to come, a memorable landmark on the campus, symbolising hard work, long hours, learning, research and ultimately success. On the eve of the 150th anniversary of the Potchefstroom Campus, this special anniversary edition of the history of the Ferdinand Postma Library celebrates its humble beginnings but also uniquely contributes to the milestones in the history of the campus. With its architecture (as the first modern, post-war building of the University) it is still today an important beacon and a showpiece of the growth and academic development of the University. It has positioned itself excellently to not only contribute to the information era, but to pioneer library and information services. With its architecture (as the first modern, post-war building of the University) it is still today an important beacon and a showpiece of the growth and academic development of the University. It has positioned itself excellently to not only contribute to the information era, but to pioneer library and information services. May this celebration of the history of the Library not only bring back fond memories, but may it also inspire future generations to be pioneers in every new era. Prof Fika J van Rensburg Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Potchefstroom Campus North-West University June 2018