​'We acknowledge the value of our librarians who are an integral part of nation-building. They help to develop reading skills and grow the nation by fostering a love for life-long learning,' said the City of Cape Town's Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

Several librarians received long service awards, while others were recognised for their dedication to a reading community.

‘Our librarians put so much of themselves into their libraries and this is why each library feels different and it's why patrons feel comfortable enough to stay for hours, enjoying the space that has been created. Libraries are more than just places where you can lend books, music and art. They are an important part of our access to information and an integral part of building a literate society with access to information,' added Councillor Badroodien.

• Some of the notable achievements which were highlighted are listed below:
  •   Library manager of the year – Soraya Samuels from Athlone Library
  •   ECO Friendly Award – Bellville Library
  •   The Collaboration of the year Award – Jacinta Avontuur and Mark Sinclair – Parow Library
  •   The Mohale Mashigo Award (to promote African literature in libraries) – Portia Nyokana from Weltevreden Library
  •   The Customer Service Award (Patrons had to rate the service received) went to Strand Library
  •   The South African Library Week Display Award went to Wesfleur library
  •   The staff member of the Year award went to Zak Rawoot from Kuilsriver library. Zak filled a void at Goodwood library and became involved in overseeing renovations to the value of almost R2 million. He co-ordinated the whole process, had various meetings with the project manager and the company who did the on-site work.
  •   Library of the Year – Valhalla Park Library

This facility won the Provincial Cultural Award for the best book club at a Public library, is the custodian of the ‘read for my future @ my library’ campaign, which has become a City wide reading competition.

'All our libraries are spaces of learning and enjoyment and it's largely due to our librarians. I want to commend them for being reading warriors and championing the value of reading,' said Councillor Badroodien.

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