VIDEO: R12.3-million Olievenhoutbosch community library vandalised
“It has been stripped of its purpose.”
A DA councillor has bemoaned the damage vandals have done to a brand-new multi-million rand public library in Olievenhoutbosch, Centurion.
“It has been stripped of its purpose,” councillor Anru Meyer said of the library during a visit on Saturday.
Damage included shattered windows, a burnt-out security office, broken door handles, a malfunctioning parking access gate and stolen tiles.
The library cost R12,3-million to complete and was opened in August last year.
He said the security office at the entrance had been vandalised so badly it currently did not serve any purpose.
However, despite the vandalism, he said the library’s service to the community was “outstanding”.
“This library is a much-needed resource for this community and is being used by many students doing research.
The staff and volunteers try their level best to help the community and to keep the property clean,” he told Rekord.
Meyer said there were plans in the pipeline to have more activities at the library.
“There are facilities at the library that can be used to host exhibitions and workshops,” he said.
“That is exactly what the community needs.”
Construction of the library started in 2014 after the area was identified by the Tshwane metro and the province as being among the most under-serviced in terms of libraries.
Its opening on 14 August last year was attended by Tshwane mayor Solly Msimanga and Gauteng sports, arts, culture and recreation MEC Faith Mazibuko.
Mazibuko said the library was expected to address “cultural, recreational and developmental needs of the community by providing them access to information resources, public internet and Wi-Fi”.
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