South African Library Week

A march to promote libraries.
A total of 20 193 items valued at R1 774 993,70 were not returned to City of Cape Town libraries last year.

Today is the start of the South African Library Week which ends on Saturday March 23.

It’s also Fine Free Week which coincides with South African Library Week. It is hoped that members of the public will use this opportunity to return these items that are overdue.

Mayoral committee member for community services and health, Zaid Badroodien, said: “This year, the theme for Library Week is Collaborate @ Your Library. I want to urge patrons to take hands with librarians to make access to information a reality by returning those items that are long overdue. We will ask no questions and waive any fines that have accrued on these items.”

SA Library Week was launched in 2001 for libraries across the country to use as an opportunity to market their services and to promote the important role that libraries play in a democratic society by advancing literacy.

During South African Library Week, City libraries are hosting various special programmes for all ages including a road march to promote library services, storytelling, arts and crafts, membership drives and poetry sessions.

Mr Badroodien said, “The City’s libraries have become more than just buildings where we store books. They are places of knowledge and information, spaces for social interaction and relaxation. Libraries are communal spaces where residents can meet, learn and interact.”