By Nomfundo Mbatha
In celebration of South African Library Week, St Mary’s Development and Care Centre (DCC) joined hands with Makana Libraries to host a heartwarming tour for Grade 5 learners, shining a spotlight on the theme “Libraries for sustainable communities”.
The event, held at the historic Makana Town Library, brought together enthusiastic young readers and library staff for an hour-long session of storytelling, shared reading, and study. The initiative was organised by Children’s Librarian Phumeza Tshikila and DCC Literacy Co-ordinator Brendan Williams to break down generational barriers around access to public library spaces.
“Many of our children come from communities where libraries were historically seen as exclusive,” said Williams. “By stepping into this space, we are rewriting that narrative.”
The tour also emphasised the library’s role in promoting inclusion, resilience, and lifelong learning, resonating with the national theme championed by LIASA. It aligns with South Africa’s commitment to sustainable development and equality, reflecting libraries’ contributions to sustainable cities, communities and quality education. Libraries, small or big, resourceful or less resourceful, are among the most inclusive institutions within the communities. They are designed to serve everyone regardless of age.
The event concluded with a call to strengthen partnerships and encourage library memberships within families, planting seeds for a lasting reading culture.
“Every child deserves a place where stories come alive and they can learn. We need to encourage children to familiarise themselves with library resources often. Although some libraries have fewer resources, it is important for people to explore what libraries offer,” Tshikila said. “Today, they found that place.”
