Librarian excited about the facility’s new look

For some, a library is a place to access information needed for an assignment.

However, for Petra Ramathle, librarian of the Benoni Library, it is a gateway to exploring magnificent places immaculately coloured with words crafted by authors.

During the official re-opening of the library on September 16, following its R3.7m revamp that saw the closure of the facility for four months, the City Times met with the custodian of 95 000 literary works and 1 000 audio books.

The revamp was made possible through a grant from the provincial government’s information services to the City of Ekurhuleni.

Petra has become a familiar face at the facility since 2011, quietly sweeping among the bookshelves and guiding information seekers through the labyrinth of books.

Automatically speaking in hushed tones, Petra tells how she dreamt of becoming a nurse, but through an administrative error, she was enrolled for a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science.

“One could argue that becoming a librarian was fate pulling me into this profession,” said Petra.

“I love reading. Well-written works can transport the reader to distant places where the characters become beloved friends.”

On the library’s revamp Petra says she and the 13 staff members are excited to welcome visitors back to the facility, which boasts new carpets and tiles.

One of the management staff’s major concerns has also been addressed.

“The roof leaked whenever it rained and the continuous moisture and dampness could potentially have damaged our books. The roof was resealed and leaks repaired.

“The facility also now boasts with a generator as well as free monitored internet access to better enable learners to access information.”

The auditorium is open to the public and for a nominal fee can be used for workshops, public meetings, music classes and more.

“We invite the public to become part of the library system and to utilise the extensive services on offer,” said Petra.

“The staff is eager to assist in any way possible and have a plethora of knowledge including finding the best developmental books for children as well as assisting the youth with online applications for tertiary education.”

The library is open daily from 09:00 to 16:30 and every second Saturday from 08:00 to 13:00.

For more information or auditorium bookings call 011 999 6846/5 or 011 999 7451/2.

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