Edgemead Library

Meet the judges for the Otto Foundation Children’s Book Award 2026 (Chapter Books)!

We are proud that our Area Manager, Dr. Flippie van der Walt (PhD), is part of this distinguished panel. Congratulations! 👏📚

We are delighted to introduce you to our Chapter Books Advisory Panel. These are the wonderful people who will be judging the shortlist and helping us to arrive at a winner of the Otto Foundation Children’s Book Award 2026 (Chapter Books category).

Today, we are excited to introduce Flippie van der Walt.

Flippie is an experienced library professional with a lifelong commitment to children’s literacy, library services, and reading development. He has spent many years working in public libraries in the Western Cape and City of Cape Town, leading and supporting library services that connect children and communities with books and learning opportunities.

His academic background includes advanced qualifications in Library and Information Science, with a particular focus on children’s librarianship and information literacy for primary school children. He also holds a PhD in Information Science.

Flippie brings both practical and academic expertise to the judging panel, combining a deep understanding of children’s reading needs with extensive experience in library collections, literacy development, and reader engagement.

Great news! From 29 June to 4 July, the library will be hosting a Juvenile Fine-Free Week.
All users under the age of 18 are invited to return overdue items during this period without paying any fines. This is a great opportunity to clear your account and start fresh. 📚

Please note that this also applies to users who are currently 18 or older, but were under 18 at the time the items were checked out—their overdue fines will also be removed during this period.

Kindly note that this applies to current overdue fines only. Lost or damaged items will still need to be paid for and previous outstanding fines will still need to be paid.

We look forward to welcoming you back to the library! 😀