1. One of the aims of the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) is to instil the ability to "collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information" in learners. This critical outcome of CAPS, also termed information literacy, underpins resource-based learning which, inter alia, involves active interaction with many learning resources.

2. For CAPS to be implemented successfully, it is essential that a wide range of library resource material, in addition to textbooks and readers, be available for use by learners daily.

3. The Norms and Standards allocations to schools make provision for the purchasing of library resource material (as well as textbooks and readers). The following information provided in Circular 0048/2013 has bearing on this: Section 3.1 advises/requests that schools spend 50% of their Norms and Standards allocation for 2015, on LTSM, of which 10% should be earmarked for library material.

4. Library material includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • reference works (encyclopaedias, atlases, dictionaries, etc.);
  • non-fiction works (books containing information or facts);
  • fiction works (novels, short stories, fables, legends, picture books, etc.);
  • posters and pamphlets;
  • magazines and newspapers;
  • pre-recorded audio cassettes, CDs, videos, DVDs, and CD-ROMs; and
  • multimedia packages.
5. The Western Cape Education Department’s (WCED) Education Library and Information Service (EDULIS) has a team of specialised evaluators (Evaluators: Curriculum Resources) who evaluate and recommend a wide range of curriculum-related resources for school libraries/classroom libraries/media centres.

6. These evaluators can assist in the selection of quality library material. Customised lists of school library material can be provided on request. The list will indicate the title, publisher, ISBN number and approximate price of each item.

7. To request a customised list, schools may contact Helene Johnston on tel. no. 021 957 9620 or helene.johnston@westerncape.gov.za

8. After making selections from the suggested titles on the customised lists, non Section 21 schools may attach the list to the WCED requisition form (WCED 034: "REQUISITION FOR LIBRARY MATERIAL 2014/15") and submit it to the LTSM office by 25 April 2014, the first date set out for submitting major requisitions according to Circular 0048/2013. Section 21 schools may use the list to purchase directly from suppliers.

9. For further enquires please contact Theresa de Young on 021 957 9638 or Theresa.deyoung@westerncape.gov.za


SIGNED: M M HARKER
DEPUTY DIRECTOR-GENERAL: EDUCATION PLANNING
DATE: 2014:04:04