GEORGE NEWS - The George Philatelic Society will be partnering with the George Library once again to celebrate National Library Week (17 to 23 March) under the theme 'Libraries for Sustainable Communities'.
As part of the celebration, four diverse stamp exhibits will be on display.
For over a century, postal stamps have played a meaningful role in building sustainable communities worldwide
These miniature ambassadors showcase a country's identity, history and values. In South Africa, stamps have celebrated our national anthem, flag, and rich cultural heritage.
Themes such as taxi hand signs, beadwork, local architecture, folklore, and historical landmarks not only preserve cultural identity but also promote tourism and stimulate local economies.
Anne Frank: Resilience and human rights
Willie Mollentze's exhibit will focus on the life and legacy of Anne Frank, the Dutch girl whose diary became one of the most powerful testimonies of human endurance.
She died at age 15 in a German concentration camp 80 years ago, yet her story continues to inspire movements for human rights, reconciliation and social cohesion worldwide.
The stamps in this exhibit highlight how postal services honour historical figures who have shaped global discussions on justice and equality.
100 Years of South African philatelic firsts
Hans Manke's fascinating exhibit will showcase 100 years of South African Philatelic Firsts (1910 to 2010), featuring stamps and other philatelic materials that commemorate key historical events.
This includes South Africa's very first stamp issued after the formation of the Union in 1910, along with other landmark moments.
Manke will also host a live demonstration on how to build a stamp collection during the 'Alice in Wonderland' session on Wednesday 19 March, from 11:00 to 12:00.
Conservation through stamps: Wildlife in peril
Postal stamps have long been used to support nature conservation and environmental awareness.
Ken Coetzee, a nature conservationist from George, has curated an educational and visually striking display featuring mammals of Southern Africa that are under threat of extinction.
This exhibit shows how stamps can raise awareness about biodiversity conservation while encouraging sustainable practices.
Christmas stamps and the fight against tuberculosis
Non-profit organisations have historically partnered with postal services to promote social causes.
Dr Charles Deacon's collection highlights one such initiative - Christmas stamps and seals used to raise awareness and funds for the fight against tuberculosis.
His display includes rare and valuable material from South Africa, showcasing how stamps have played a role in public health campaigns.
Whether you are a dedicated philatelist or simply curious about the fascinating world of stamps, this exhibition at the George Library will reveal how these tiny pieces of paper continue to tell big stories and contribute to a more sustainable world.
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