UKZN Library Brews Up Student Comfort

Library Services at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) officially launched a new coffee machine service at the Westville campus on 18 March 2026.

Although the launch event took place at the Westville Campus Library, the machines had already been installed at all campus libraries during the first week of March. The initiative aims to improve access to basic amenities in library spaces and support a more effective study environment.

The introduction of the coffee machines forms part of UKZN Library Services’ broader strategy to transform libraries into modern, social learning spaces. These spaces are intended not only to support academic work, but also enhance student comfort and well-being. By providing essential amenities in the library, the University aims to create an environment where students can study, research, and collaborate more effectively.

This is particularly beneficial for postgraduate and research students, who often spend extended hours in the library. The availability of on-site refreshments reduces the need to leave the library for breaks, allowing students to manage their time and maintain focus on their academic work. The initiative also supports UKZN’s strategic goal of delivering an excellent student experience.

In her welcome remarks, Director of Library Services, Dr Nonhlanhla Ngcobo provided background on the initiative. “Our goal is to make the UKZN Library a truly 21st-century library. As part of that, we are converting our spaces into social learning spaces where we provide students with the amenities, they need to pursue their research and studies,” she said. She added that the service is particularly useful for postgraduate students: “They spend long hours in the library, and we want to ensure they don’t have to leave their studies and go out of the library to get coffee or refreshments.”

Ngcobo also noted that the timing of the launch was significant. “There’s no better time to launch these machines than during national South African Library Week, which promotes the importance of libraries,” she said.

Dr Richard Beharilal, Principal Librarian at the Westville campus, highlighted the practical value of the service. “The library is open 24 hours, and this facility is helpful. The team has been looking at ways to provide refreshments for students who spend long hours here. The coffee is affordable, and the system is cashless,” he said.

The machines operate on a fully cashless system, requiring only card or tap payment options, making transactions quick and convenient. They offer a variety of hot beverages, including options such as white chocolate, latte, and caramel-flavoured drinks.

Ms Celeste Johns, Principal Librarian at the Pietermaritzburg campus, added that the initiative contributes to the broader vision for library spaces. “This is one step closer to us having fully developed social learning spaces,” she said, while also acknowledging the support received from the service provider.

Abdel Hoosen, Sales Executive at Dallmayr, expressed appreciation for the partnership on behalf of the service provider.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to install our machines at UKZN. The response so far has been overwhelming. You are already top performers, and the usage levels are exceeding those of customers who have been with us for years,” he said.

Students have also responded positively to the new service. Miss Sia Jamnadas, a first-year Optometry student, said she and her friend have been regular users since the machines were installed. “It’s one of the coolest things at UKZN. We are hooked on the caramel chocolate latte,” she said. She added that the pricing, which ranges from R11 to R15, makes it affordable for students.

Currently, the machines provide hot beverages only. However, there are plans to expand the service to include machines offering both hot and cold drinks. Snack vending machines may also be introduced to further enhance convenience in library spaces.

The rollout has already received strong uptake across campuses. The introduction of the coffee machines reflects ongoing efforts by UKZN Library Services to improve everyday student support and adapt library spaces to current academic needs.

Words: Nkosazana Manzi
Photographs: Sethu Dlamini