The City’s Library and Information Service is continuing with a  gradual phase in to open more libraries for the drop and collect service, subject to the applicable Alert Level 1 regulations.

’We welcome the opening of the drop and go service at additional libraries as these facilities play an important role in our communities as knowledge and learning centres and as a source of information.

‘There should be a balance between the gradual reopening of libraries and the protection of community members and staff so as to minimise the risk of exposure to COVID-19. We would like to once again request patrons to adhere to the prescribed health and safety protocols when visiting libraries ,' said the Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien. 

There will be a demarcated drop zone at each of the 54 libraries where patrons can place their library material. The material returned will be quarantined for 72 hours, and will thus remain on the patron’s card for this period, before it is handled by library staff and returned on the system. Patrons will still be allowed to borrow 20 items at a time for 30 days.

For further information on the list of libraries opened and other relevant information, please visit opac.capetown.gov.za

Apart from the operational changes that community facilities are implementing to be able to provide services during COVID-19, the City’s libraries are also confronted with theft and vandalism. Yesterday, the Heideveld library fell victim to a burglary. It appears  that the suspects gained access to the library through the roof. Copper water pipes were stolen out of the roof, resulting in excessive water damage. The exact cause of the damage is being investigated. The loss of books is estimated at R30 000 and the estimated cost of water extraction is R10 000.

The library was to open next week, 28  September 2020, but will now no longer open until such time that the damage is repaired.

‘Theft and vandalism not only damages books and infrastructure, but deprives our residents of an opportunity to read and learn. We  appeal to the community to please be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior near  libraries. Although security services provide frontline protection, it is often not enough and a partnership with the community is therefore essential if we are to protect our vulnerable community facilities.

‘I would like to thank our dedicated staff for their hard work and dedication throughout these challenging times. Our libraries have for many years been popular facilities in our communities and our patrons – from children to senior citizens - play an equally important role in supporting and accessing services. If we all work together in caring for our facilities, we will get through these challenging times,’ added Councillor Badroodien.

The City’s Library and Information Service continues to put operational plans in place to increase access to libraries and this will be communicated in due course.

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