At Bracken Library, one man’s quiet dedication has transformed not only the garden but also the hearts of those who visit.

Tshepo Mphahlele, a car guard at the library, is known for more than just keeping watch over patrons’ vehicles. He has also taken it upon himself to care for the neglected library garden.

After losing his job during the Covid-19 pandemic, Mphahlele began working at the library on weekends, helping patrons by keeping an eye on their cars and occasionally washing them for a small tip.

Over time, he noticed that the once well-kept garden had fallen into disrepair due to a lack of municipal maintenance.

Refusing to see the library’s exterior deteriorate, Mphahlele started tending to the grounds himself.

“The contract workers stopped coming here a long time ago, and they only recently came to help with our clean-up after we called them,” he said. “The place looked like it was closed because the garden wasn’t being taken care of.”

Between his car-guarding duties, Mphahlele waters the plants, pulls out weeds and clears leaves about three times a week. He does all of this using limited tools and resources.

“I’m interested in doing the garden job,” he said. “The thing is, I love clean spaces and the environment. It’s not only about loving nature, but about loving a clean space.”

Community members have come to admire Mphahlele for his initiative and positivity. Despite walking nearly two hours from Thokoza to reach the library each day, he remains cheerful and hardworking.

“The tips aren’t a lot of money, but what’s the use of staying home? What will I do if I’m at home not working?” he said.

To support him, library staff and patrons launched the 1 Meal per Day campaign earlier this year, encouraging residents to contribute a meal, non-perishable food items, or a small donation. A list and collection box have been placed at the library’s counter for anyone wishing to assist.

Library staff shared: “He is there in the rain, cold and heat, and always has a smile and kind word for everyone. He does not complain about his life or the many things he must do without. Tshepo is not a municipal or library employee. His only income comes from the tips he gets for keeping an eye on patrons’ cars and doing the occasional car wash job.”

Kim Rousseau, a member of the Brackendowns CPF, commended Mphahlele’s efforts.

“Out of his own initiative, he arranged for the municipality to assist with a major clean-up of the grounds,” she said. “People like him, who work to improve their surroundings with no expectations in return, deserve recognition and support.”

Anyone wishing to help Tshepo with food, garden materials, or other donations can contact Bracken Library at 011 867 5988 and ask to speak to him.

Mphahlele does not own a cellphone.