Libraries have an essential role in creating safe spaces for the youth, and they are needed on the gang-riddled Cape Flats now more than ever, the GOOD Party said in calling for better resources in previously disadvantaged communities.
The party raised concern after a well-stocked Tokai public library had R15 000 allocated to it for gaming equipment while they said the Gugulethu Library has received very little funding since 2013.
The City has since said the purchase of the gaming equipment was at the ward councillor’s discretion.
GOOD councillor, Siyabulela Mamkeli said: “Recent site visits to Cape Town Libraries highlight the blatant disparity of resources between the southern suburbs and the city’s informal settlements. While my fellow councillor, Roscoe Palm saw a well-stocked Tokai public library that had R15 000 allocated to it for gaming equipment, the Gugulethu Library has received very little funding since 2013.”
Mamkeli highlighted that the air conditioners were no longer functioning, creating a “heated and uncomfortable environment”.
“The lack of proper cooling for the server unit is of great concern and a potential fire hazard. The Khayelitsha Library fell victim to a server room fire in February 2024. The TV set, also purchased in 2013 through ward allocation, is now outdated and needs replacement. A modern unit could enhance the library’s multimedia offerings, making it more appealing to students, youth, and other community members. Libraries have an essential role in creating safe spaces for the youth of our country. And the need for them in the gang-riddled Cape Flats is needed now more than ever.”
“According to the City’s website, libraries not only loan out books but provide access to electronic resources and community programmes and events. It cannot be that libraries in privileged areas get unnecessary fund allocation, while previously disadvantaged communities are forgotten about,” Mamkeli said.
Mayco member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham said the gaming equipment was bought with ward allocation money.
“The gaming equipment is new and was procured via the City’s Supply Chain Management process with the use of a ward allocation, which was also used to procure games for the PS4. The purchase was at the ward councillor’s discretion.
“The rationale behind procuring gaming equipment for Tokai Library is that the library serves a diverse community, including both affluent residents and the marginalised Westlake community. Westlake does not have a library, making Tokai Library a crucial resource for its children. The success of gaming programmes in other libraries, such as Delft Library, has demonstrated that structured gaming can encourage positive behaviour and promote library engagement. We believed a gaming setup at Tokai Library would offer these same benefits and create a more inclusive and stimulating learning environment for the Westlake children,” said Hingham.
She said Gugulethu library had been allocated a budget of R63 301 for its library collection development during the 2024/2025 financial year.
“This budget is divided into children’s and adult books, and includes audio material. Each year, we consider local community needs and create a Collection Development Plan that reflect these needs. The air conditioners are being assessed to plan the way forward. The library is making use of ceiling fans to help keep the facility cool.”
Cape Times