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Partial reopening of Johannesburg City Library rekindles community passion for reading
The Johannesburg City Library’s partial reopening has breathed new life into the city’s reading culture, with community members returning to a space long cherished for its role in education and personal growth.
Among the library’s most devoted visitors are Mantombi Nkosi and Zonke Vilakazi, co-founders of the Moving Spirit Book Club. For them, the library has been more than a building—it’s a place where ideas flourish and literacy is celebrated.
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Book club champions youth literacy and empowerment
The Moving Spirit Book Club works to make reading engaging and accessible for young people. Nkosi and Vilakazi see it as a platform not just for storytelling, but for social change.
“Encouraging literacy is fundamental for development,” said Mantombi. “When people can read and write, they can uplift themselves from poverty.”
Zonke added that the library was a place of refuge during her formative years. “Growing up in a large family, studying at home wasn’t easy. The library gave me a quiet space to learn and dream.”
Now that the ground floor and children’s section have reopened, the space once again offers readers a safe haven to explore literature and connect with others.
Infrastructure upgrades mark key milestone
The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), working with the City’s Community Development Department, led the restoration efforts. Key upgrades included the installation of water tanks, lighting improvements, roof repairs, and new fire safety systems.
JDA CEO Themba Mathibe said the reopening represents a broader commitment to preserving cultural infrastructure: “Libraries are more than just buildings; they are gateways to knowledge, opportunity, and community development.”
Full reopening expected later this year
While only part of the library is currently accessible, a full reopening is planned for the second quarter of 2025. For now, the Moving Spirit Book Club and many others will continue to make use of the restored sections, keeping the spirit of reading alive.
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Sourced:City Of Joburg
Picture: Instagram/Dada Morero
