Building on last year’s tradition of celebrating World Read Aloud Day with all ages, our Central Library team headed to ACVV Zonnebloem on 4 February 2026. Stacey, Razaan, Thandiwe and Kayla – joined by UWC student Zusakhe – were met by a full house of 36 residents and staff. The lounge was perfectly prepared with a podium and microphone, setting the stage for a morning of shared stories and connection.
The literary lineup was a hit, blending nostalgia with humor. Kayla kicked things off with a spirited rendition of Roald Dahl’s Goldilocks and the Three Bears from his Revolting Rhymes, followed by Stacey and Thandiwe’s hilarious reading of “The Sunday School Treat” from the classic Just William series. The storytelling concluded with another lively performance of Cinderella by Kayla, which left the entire room thoroughly entertained.
Beyond the stories, the team brought a special touch of care with several bags of fresh grapes and bananas. A huge shout-out goes to Razaan for arranging this thoughtful treat! Since fresh fruit isn’t a regular staple on the home’s menu, the residents truly felt pampered as Razaan and Thandiwe served them personally. It was a wonderful day that proved stories (and a little bit of fruit) have the power to brighten any afternoon.
After storytelling, our team shifted gears to provide practical support. We assisted residents with membership queries, including a one-on-one session with a retiree who was eager to navigate the online application process. The day was a resounding success leaving both residents and staff feeling uplifted. The warmest feedback we received was an invitation to return with many asking if we could make these visits more frequently. It’s clear that our presence provided more than just a service, it provided a sense of community.
Stacey Grod
Librarian
Central Library