Lend a hand to preserve Brakpan’s history this Heritage Day by joining the clean-up at the old library to help restore this once-proud landmark.

The clean-up is an initiative of Brakpan teen Brianna Mupaya (16), an environmental activist with a deep love for local heritage sites.

Clean Brakpan will also be joining the clean-up, which will take place from 09:00 to 12:00. Volunteers are requested to bring along refuse bags, spades and other tools and equipment.

Brianna has also started a petition on change.org, calling upon local authorities, businesses, and citizens to contribute resources, time, and effort to restore the library to its former glory and ensure it remains secured.

“Growing up in Brakpan, I’ve seen the beauty and importance of preserving our cultural landmarks. Unfortunately, one such site, the old abandoned library, has become a shadow of its former self.

“Once a beacon of knowledge and community, it is now misused as a dumping area and a den for thieves and drug addicts,” the petition reads.

“This not only tarnishes the heritage of Ekurhuleni but also poses a severe risk to the schools and community members nearby.

“The once-abandoned library now stands perilously close to our schools, presenting a health hazard and an environmental disaster that is difficult to ignore.

“As residents and community members, we face an urgent challenge: the need to restore, clean, and secure this heritage site for the safety and legacy of our community.”

Brianna believes restoring the library will help in reclaiming the community’s safety and instil pride in preserving cultural heritage.

The petition can be signed at https://www.change.org/p/clean-up-and-restore-brakpan-s-abandoned-heritage-site-library

ALSO CHECK: Engines, eats and entertainment at Just Wheels European Car Show

ALSO CHECK: Brakpan security guard saves drowning puppy, reunites with owners