State-of-the-art library worth R24 million opens in Amaoti

Travelling long distances to access library services will now be a thing of the past for Amaoti residents after eThekwini mayor, Cllr Mxolisi Kaunda, opened the state-of-the-art Amaoti Library in ward 53, on Wednesday.

Prior to the construction of the library, Amaoti residents relied on the Phoenix Library, which is more than 10 kilometres away.

Mayor Kaunda stated that the findings of a need’s analysis found that there was an urgent need for a library in this area.

The library started as a pilot project where the municipality provided a mobile from 9am to 3pm, once a week.

Cllr Kaunda said, “The utilisation of the mobile library demanded a proper plan and budget for a permanent library. More than five schools will benefit from this new library. Statistics show that over 7, 000 people will benefit from this state-of-the-art library.” He explained that the library has 17 computers which will be used by patrons with access to free WiFi.

“This library project cost approximately R24 million and is equipped with modern technology such as a computer lab and study rooms with a seating capacity of over 120. The facility boasts an outdoor gymnasium, basketball court, fire-fighting equipment, gardening and open space for socialisation,” said Mayor Kaunda.

“This library is a true reflection of a recreational facility. I urge residents to take full ownership of the library. It is the responsibility of all residents to protect it from vandalism. The library is value for money, and it should be treated as such,” he added.

Mayor Kaunda stated that the library will offer services such as the circulation of books, audiovisual material, study halls, posters, gaming, toys, newspapers, magazines, photocopying, scanning, printing as well as free public internet access.

The library will also implement a number of educational and community programmes these include: Implementation of reading programmes, involvement of the community to promote reading, holiday programmes, career expos, computer skills, spelling bees and school readers club.