Parow Library recently bade farewell to one of their much-beloved librarians, children’s librarian Mark Sinclair, who retired this year after serving in libraries for 32 years.

At a farewell held for him a week ago, Jacinta Avontuur, principal librarian, described him as humble. “He was the same every day and had lots of patience, which made him so good with children. Despite his disability, Mark showed up every day and was always willing to assist his colleagues with their everyday tasks.

“He was also very creative and loved making posters and using polystyrene. He will be missed by all his colleagues, especially the staff who worked with him in the children’s section.”

Decades of service

In his speech, Sinclair related how he had started volunteering at Leonsdale Library in 1987, after school hours when he was in Standard 7 (now Grade 9). After completing matric in 1991, financial constraints prevented him from pursuing further studies. He continued volunteering at the library.

“In this period, due to my disability, my orthopaedic surgeon referred me to the Disabled Centre in Athlone, where I was empowered with valuable skills in computer literacy, administration and clerical duties. These skills played an important role in my personal and professional development.

“In 1993, I began working as a relief worker at Leonsdale Library while continuing my training at the Disabled Centre. In 1994, I saw an advertisement in the newspaper for a library-cleaner position at Bishop Lavis Library, which at that time fell under Communicare. I applied for the position and was successful. Later that same year, I was promoted to the position of library assistant. I proudly served at Bishop Lavis Library for 22 years in this role. While working there, I pursued my studies through the University of the Western Cape, beginning in 2010. Through dedication and perseverance, I completed my Bachelor of Library and Information Science degree in April 2016 and graduated shortly afterwards.”

Following his graduation, he applied for the position of children’s librarian at Parow Library and commenced his duties in July 2016. “I served in this role until April 2026, when I left the library service for medical reasons.

“As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities, support and friendships I experienced throughout my years in the Library Service. From Leonsdale Library, where it all began, to Bishop Lavis Library, where I spent most of my career, and finally Parow Library, where I served as children’s librarian, each chapter has been a blessing.”

Sinclair thanked the Library and Information Services Department as well as all his colleagues who supported him throughout his career. “Your kindness, encouragement and friendship made my journey both meaningful and enjoyable.”

A fond farewell

The library shared photos of his farewell online, saying he leaves a remarkable legacy of service, kindness and commitment to fostering a love of reading among generations of children and families behind.

At Parow Library he touched countless lives through his passion for books, storytelling and community engagement. While staff and library users there were sad to see him go, they wished him every happiness and success in this exciting new chapter of his life, a retirement filled with good health, relaxation, new adventures and plenty of time to enjoy the things he loves.

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