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Library and Information Services Department

Library and Information Services Department

What we do

Our department consists of 102 service points, including 101 libraries and 1 satellite library. These service points not only loan out books, CDs and DVDs, but also provide access to electronic resources and programmes in information-retrieval skills, lifelong learning, and storytelling. Libraries also provide a safe space for the communities we serve to study, meet, socialise, learn and read.

"We empower people and communities by providing spaces, connections and resources that enrich lives, inspire discovery, foster creativity and expand possibilities. Our business is ensuring free access to informational, educational, cultural and recreational resources and services. Our passion is encouraging reading for leisure and life-long learning." Ninnie Steyn Director: Library and Information Services

We include

Our services

Welcome to our vibrant library community - your one-stop hub for resources, activities, and opportunities for all ages!

Resources and events for adults:

  • Access a diverse collection of books, magazines, audiobooks, and DVDs for leisure and learning.
  • Borrow up to seven books or magazines, three CDs or audiobooks and two DVDs at a time
  • Experience local talents, new authors, and creative showcases at book launches and art exhibitions
  • Participate in our employment readiness programmes and access job-hunting tips, help with your CV, and skill-building workshops

Our children’s collection:

  • Picture books (colour-coded by theme), easy readers, juvenile fiction and non-fiction, audiobooks, biographies
  • Dewey Decimal System for easy browsing

Children’s programmes and activities:

  • Coding clubs: Fun, interactive introduction to programming
  • Storytelling sessions: Spark imagination with interactive stories, rhymes, and songs
  • Pram Jams (Ages 0–3): Music and movement to delight the youngest members
  • Reading and book clubs: Engaging activities to foster a love for reading
  • Homework clubs: Extra support and study help
  • Gaming and chess clubs: Play, learn strategy, and sharpen your mind
  • 1000 Stories Before School: Read a story a day, earn certificates, and build literacy skills early

Our youth collection:

  • Study guides for various grades
  • Popular BookTok titles, new fiction, and non-fiction on teen issues.
  • Tablets for in-library reading programmes and competitions

Key initiatives:

  • Matric Assistance Programmes (MAPs): Study guides, exam prep, career guidance, stress/time management tips
  • Career Expos: Connect with professionals, explore career paths, and discover job opportunities
  • Libraries Up to Code: Hands-on coding sessions (unplugged and plugged) using Scratch or Python
  • Science Week (Ages 13–18): Workshops, tech stations, and guest speakers to inspire a love for STEM

Digital Resources

Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)
Visit OPAC to renew your library books, see what items we have in our collection and what each library has available, create reading lists and access our E-resources.

Libby by OverDrive
Borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks, and digital magazines straight from your library’s digital collection, onto your smart device

PressReader
Access local and international newspapers and magazines on your smart device

SmartCape Internet Stations
Enjoy free internet access for research, job hunting, and more

Free Wi-Fi
Available at selected libraries; bring your own device and stay connected

Did you know?

You can check your local library’s Facebook page to see all the exciting events, new books, and more.

Contact us

General enquiries

Email:
libraries@capetown.gov.za

Contact list

Download our area contact list.

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