A city library is one of the best facilities for empowering people and fostering a sense of community learning.
The City of Johannesburg prides itself on having multiple libraries, which also serve as multi-purpose facilities.
It recently marked the partial re-opening of one of its libraries, the Johannesburg City Library, which provides residents with access to literature, audio-visual materials and other engaging services like literacy classes and storytelling.
The opening took place on 21 March 2025 - which was Human Rights Day - to demonstrate the city's commitment to the fundamental human rights of learning and access to information.
The partial reopening comes five years after the library was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions and much-needed renovations.
“Post the lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions was an opportune time to attend to the building as it had unmanageable water leaks which affected the operation of the building and caused water damage to books and artefacts,” Nthatisi Modingoane, City of Johannesburg Deputy Director of Media Relations at City of Johannesburg, told Time Out Johannesburg.
“Moreover, around February 2022 Emergency Management Services issued a non-compliance notice and an order to comply. The building wasn’t fire-compliant; it did not have the necessary systems (fire detection, protection, evacuation and pressurised water system in case of a fire) in line with the City’s by-laws, and the building was non-compliant with national building regulations."
“Due to the budget constraints and heritage approvals that were needed for the project, it delayed its implementation and opening,” she added.
The library has now been revamped and has all the safety measures in place.
“The building now has Building Works (waterproofing, access flooring, floor coverings, ironmongery, glazing, and paint work) completed,” Nthatisi concluded.
Residents can now access the children’s section, young adult reference library, reference section and the lending section.
Nthatisi says that the full reopening is expected to take place around August 2025.
Recommended
📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg
🏨 Where to stay in Johannesburg
☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg