Athlone Library reopened after burglary, services restored for community

27 April 2026

Athlone Library has reopened to the public following two consecutive burglaries that temporarily disrupted services.

The library reopened after nearly two weeks of limited services after two burglaries caused significant damage to the roof of the facility, while network and electrical cables, as well as water pipes were stolen, resulting in several plugs not working and a minor water leak.

During the closure, staff also initiated a few changes to improve the overall user experience, specifically for the SmartCape offering.

Stronger Wi Fi was installed, while the library’s SmartCape computers were distributed for availability in both the children’s and adult areas.

The children’s team also took the Digital Reading Den programme into the community.

This programme focuses on helping to combat illiteracy in schools and local communities.

‘The City strongly condemns the acts of burglary and vandalism targeting public facilities. These crimes not only damage infrastructure – they directly impact residents by disrupting access to essential services, safe community spaces and opportunities for learning and development.

‘The reopening of Athlone Library is good news for the community and the many patrons, young and old, who make use of it. I want to thank our patrons for their patience during the closure. We ask residents to work with us to protect these facilities and report anything suspicious. Only by working together can we stop the destruction of the public spaces that belong to all of us,’ said Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

Anyone with information can call the tip-off line, anonymously if you prefer, 0800 110077.

Credible information will be acted on to ensure perpetrators are arrested.

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office