Choose City libraries as your study buddy
23 October 2022
The City of Cape Town’s libraries are more than a safe space to study, learn and conduct research. Many are offering a plethora of aids to help learners prepare for the exams.
‘Our libraries are already the only quiet or safe space for many of our learners and they provide free access to educational material, study guides, the internet and other resources. Now many offer additional services to help learners make the most of their study time,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.
A number of libraries have set aside dedicated areas for studying, while others have made past exam papers available, will screen movies of prescribed books and provide study tips.
‘The City’s libraries complement the work done at schools and the quiet calm of the facility can help learners truly focus on their studies,’ said Councillor Van der Ross.
Through the SmartCape initiative, which provides free internet access to all library users, members of the City’s libraries can access all Britannica resources and, should they require, can have unlimited access to the service from any internet-enabled phone or other device for registered library users.
This means learners and students will have access to factually sound information that is updated on a regular basis, and which will be available to them at any time of day at their leisure. Content on the site is tailored according to the educational level of the user and the service also supports those for whom English is an additional language.
This service is another effort by the City to provide digital access to educational and other resources.
The City’s libraries also offer the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC), which is available remotely via the Internet and will save readers time when looking for library materials. It can also be accessed inside the library.
A single search returns results from the entire collection, including different formats of material such as books, CDs, magazines, etc. and shows the availability of material across the City’s libraries.
The search can be streamlined to indicate only a library of interest, or a search can be conducted for particular titles, authors, DVDs or even by subject.
‘I want to encourage learners to make use of the space and opportunities provided. Do everything you can and grab every opportunity to succeed in the exams,’ added Councillor Van der Ross.
Learners are reminded that space is limited and bookings may be required, while there may be a time limit on sessions.
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
