South African Library Week kicked off with a display by library staff, highlighting this year’s theme, “Libraries for Sustainable Communities.” The week began with a library march on Friday, followed by a series of community-focused events.
In partnership with the Department of Health, the library hosted a health and hygiene programme for learners from the Early Learning Centre, emphasising the importance of handwashing. The Department of Environment also joined forces with the library to educate students from Mary Harding School about biodiversity and environmental conservation.
Storytelling sessions were a key feature, engaging young learners and fostering creativity. The library also reached out to Sunnyside Primary School, promoting library membership and educating students on how to care for books. The library’s fine-free policy was highlighted, encouraging more children to join without fear of penalties.
South African Library Week concluded with a final storytelling session, celebrating the library’s role in community engagement, education, and sustainability. This week highlighted the vital role libraries play in fostering healthy, educated, and sustainable communities.
Mogamat Armien Fredericks
Librarian: Athlone Library
City of Cape Town, LIS