AVID readers as well as learners were overjoyed when they returned to Umbilo Library this week to find that it was open.
Matric study group learners, Joshua Madi, Teddy Oseko, Lindokuhle Buwa and Ruth Musteriwa ,who go to schools around the Berea, were elated when they heard the good news. “We started using this library for our study group at the beginning of the year, so were really sad when it closed for a few weeks. Two weeks ago we came here to study for Maths and ended up studying outside on the benches of the pub and another time studied outside in the car,” explained Lindokuhle Buwa.
A Bartle Road resident who does a weekly walk to the library to borrow books, said she was excited to see the library open. “I go for chemotherapy treatment quite often so like to take a good book to keep me occupied during the treatments. They (books) take you into another world for a while and take your mind off your troubles,” she added.
Meanwhile EThekwini’s head of communications, Tozi Mthethwa apologised for any inconvenience caused during the closure and reminded residents that all fines incurred during this time would be waived. “We encourage all residents to continue making use of City libraries as these are a doorway to new knowledge and wisdom. Our libraries also boast Wi-Fi connection and state-of-the-art computer labs which residents can use free of charge,” she said.
“Everyone is welcome to use the resources of the eThekwini Municipal Library, and for those who live or work in the Municipal area membership is free of charge and valid for two years. Thereafter completing a re-registration form is mandatory,” she added.
