More libraries set to close in the Peninsula

By Chanel September
11 October 2006

Cape Town’s libraries are facing a crisis as seven more libraries across the Peninsula face temporary closure due to staff shortages.

According to reports, the City of Cape Town is trying to raise R5 million to alleviate the current shortage.

Seven libraries in the northern and southern suburbs and the Atlantic seaboard are expected to be closed at the end of this month. Libraries in Bonteheuwel, Lansdowne, Hangberg in Hout Bay and other disadvantaged communities have been affected.

Cape Town’s central library has already reduced its hours by approximately four hours.

The city says the problem due to a lack of funds from provincial government. Mandla Yeki, spokesperson for MEC of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Whitey Jacobs says that the problem is not only in the Western Cape, but a national problem and that a task team has been commissioned to investigate the problem.