Executive Mayor, Alderman Patricia de Lille, has officially opened the Harare Library in Khayelitsha, saying the new facility serves as a symbol of the future of the city.
The 1 800m² library, which opened its doors in June, is situated in a new multi-purpose centre which forms part of the Harare Square upgrade.
It is unique in that it features a gaming room, a dedicated teen space and an early childhood development centre to stimulate learning. The library also offers additional computer facilities with 18 computers available for internet access and word processing. Most libraries only provide five computers for this purpose. The facility also has a study hall and meeting rooms.
Speaking at the launch on 17 November 2011, she said the City of Cape Town is focusing on creating an inclusive and caring city, in which people can access resources which will give them opportunities and change their lives.
“A library is not four walls and a roof,” she said. “It needs materials which people can use to grow, learn and reach their full potential.”
The development of the library was made possible through partnerships with the community and organisations, she said.
“The library is a symbol of a pact with the people of Khayelitsha to create a more inclusive city together. But it is also a symbol of the energy we are generating in Cape Town. That is because it is a symbol and a testament to other partnerships… that were forged by those who also share a vision of a future where people have dignity.”
Representatives of the Carnegie Corporation of New York, which contributed part of a $3 million grant to the library, were present at the launch. Other partners include the Neighbourhood Development Partnership Grant, the German Development Bank, the Violence Prevention through Urban Upgrading programme, National Treasury, Provincial grant funding, the City, and members of the community.
“Every stakeholder has played their part in a remarkable display of what strong partnerships can achieve.”
The Executive Mayor thanked the Carnegie Corporation for providing resources such as books, magazines, digital media, CDs and internet.
Internet access will allow people to become members of the global community, and will enable them to access opportunities for themselves and their families, she said.
“A library is a community coming together. It is knowledge embraced. It is dignity advanced. Between these four walls lies the future of this city.”
