11 authors join children’s book and story festival

15 October 2025

Strand Library will host a Children’s Book and Story Festival on Saturday, 25 October, from 10:00 to 12:00.

The festival, driven by passionate library staff dedicated to promoting literacy, creativity and community engagement, will bring together 11 diverse South African authors.

Among the authors are illustrators, poets, educators and entrepreneurs.

The initiative is co-ordinated by Library and Information Services (LIS) area head Rene Walker and has the support and participation of the surrounding libraries.

‘The festival will showcase the richness of local storytelling across genres, languages and styles. It makes reading exciting. It connects children with the authors and illustrators and brings stories to life in a special way. It’s also an opportunity for young readers to discover and explore new stories,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.

This event is part of the City libraries’ ongoing commitment to serving as welcoming community hubs that foster imagination, connection, and a love for reading.

It is made possible by collaboration across LIS teams, grassroots planning, and a shared belief that every child deserves access to stories and storytellers.

Programme highlights:

• Storytime and author readings

• Meet-and-greets with authors

• Book displays and signings

• Family-friendly literacy activities

• Promotion of English and Afrikaans literature

For public enquiries, please call the library on 021 444 3106

For author interviews or accreditation requests, please contact: Rene Walker by sending an email to Rene.Schoombee@capetown.gov.za

Caption 1 and 2: The Strand Library will host a children’s book and story festival.

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office