Tucked away in the heart of Boksburg is one of Ekurhuleni’s busiest and most important libraries, the Boksburg Library. While many people may think of libraries as quiet spaces filled only with books, Boksburg Library is a vibrant community hub that helps thousands of residents each year.
The library has been part of the Boksburg community for decades and remains deeply connected to the city’s rich history.
What makes this library especially significant is that it serves as Ekurhuleni’s main library. Important functions such as book processing, covering, book selection and IT systems support for all 48 libraries across the metro are handled here. Staff members work behind the scenes to ensure libraries across Ekurhuleni continue operating smoothly, a responsibility that makes the library one of the busiest in the region.
Photo: Ntsakisi Shipalana
Nepo Mohau, a staff member, shares his experience working at the library.
“I didn’t know anything about libraries, nor was I interested in books before I started working here, but ever since then, I have learnt a lot of things, and I am happy to be part of the team that keeps the library going,” Mohau reflected.
Walking through the library feels like stepping into a space where history, learning and community all meet under one roof.
One of the library’s most fascinating features is its newspaper archive collection dating back to the 1904 edition of The East Rand Express. These archives preserve more than a century of local and national history, making the library a valuable research space for learners, journalists, historians, and residents who want to explore the past.
Photo: Ntsakisi Shipalana
Beyond bookshelves and study tables, Boksburg Library continues to create programmes that bring the community together. Upcoming activities include Father’s Day card-making sessions and a Youth Day colouring competition taking place on June 12.
The library also actively encourages residents to become members and make use of its various sections and services. From young children paging through storybooks to elderly residents enjoying a morning read, the facility welcomes people from all walks of life.
It has a lot of different sections, like the kiddies section, which includes a toy library where residents can borrow toys, just as they do books. A public internet access section with computers for use and study/reading areas.
Learners from nearby schools, including Boksburg High School, are also regular visitors to the library, especially during busy academic periods when students need quiet spaces for studying, research and internet access.
Library manager Shelton Munisi, who has worked at six different libraries throughout his career, said public libraries remain essential community spaces.
“The library is important to the public because it gives people access to knowledge, information and opportunities they may not have elsewhere,” said Munisi.
He added that libraries today offer far more than just books.
“Libraries are not only about books anymore, but they are also spaces where communities learn, connect and grow together.”
Photo: Ntsakisi Shipalana
Munisi explained that the library becomes especially busy toward the end of each month, with many residents relying on its resources, internet access and study facilities.
The library is also appealing for funding and donations to support outreach programmes and community development initiatives that encourage reading and literacy among young people.
From century-old newspaper archives to busy study tables filled with learners, Boksburg Library continues to prove that libraries are still very much alive, evolving alongside the community while remaining a place of knowledge, opportunity and connection.
Photo: Ntsakisi Shipalana
Photo: Ntsakisi Shipalana
Photo: Ntsakisi Shipalana
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