Library of Parliament

Library of Parliament

  • INTRODUCTION

    The Library of Parliament contributes by ensuring seamless access to and the provision of information resources in support of the strategic objectives of the South African Parliament. Visit the library homepage (https://infosearch.parliament.gov.za/) to access resources.

  • ABOUT THE LIBRARY

    The Library of Parliament is a specialised legal deposit library, which develops its collection based on the information needs of parliamentary clients. The Library is entitled to claim a copy of every publication published within South Africa. The collection comprises a variety of formats including books and journals in electronic and print as well as databases. The collection covers an array of subject areas from accountability to corporate governance as well as legislative processes. Librarians assist in providing information to Portfolio Committees at Parliament: The Portfolio Committees are:

    • Trade & Economic Affairs
    • Resource Matters
    • Infrastructure Development
    • Safety & Security
    • Justice & Parliamentary Affairs
    • Governance
    • Social Services
    • Science & ICT
  • LIBRARY SERVICES

    The Library of Parliament is committed to deliver effective and efficient services to Members of Parliament and Parliamentary staff. The Library strives to ensure information provided is reliable and meets the information needs of our clients. The following services are available:

    • Library Membership – to use any of the Library resources, please apply for your library membership.
    • Reference & Information Services – The Reference Librarians respond to requests within the required timeframes as indicated by our clients. For information requests contact.  library@parliament.gov.za
    • Rare & Historical Information Services – The Rare & Historical Librarians assist with queries that precede 1994. These include in-depth queries and request for reproductions.  For information requests contact.  library@parliament.gov.za
    • Circulation Services – Clients may borrow and return library materials to the General Reference Desk in the Main Library. Not all library materials may be circulated, colleagues at the Reference Desk will advise clients about access and library rules
    • Interlibrary loans Service – The Library assist clients in requesting materials from other libraries if it is not in our collection. For more information contact Mrs Louw tlouw@parliament.gov.za or call our Reference desk (021) 403 2040
  • LIBRARY RESOURCES
  • CLIMATE CHANGE

    The 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, more commonly referred to as COP27, will be the 27th United Nations Climate Change conference, to be held from 6 to 18 November 2022 in Egypt. To access the COP27 website please click here.

    The Library of Parliament has compiled a few resources that cover topical issues which will be discussed at this upcoming conference. To access these resources click here.

  • LIBRARY CONTACT DETAILS

    For general questions or queries please contact:
    Reference desk – Tel: 021 403 2140/1/4
    Email:library@parliament.gov.za
    Address: Library of Parliament, P.O. Box 18, Cape Town 8000

  • LIBRARY OFFICE HOURS

    DURING SESSION
    Weekdays: 8:30 to 17:00
    (or until houses adjourn)

    DURING RECESS
    Weekdays: 9:00 to 16:00
    Saturdays: Closed