Community in shock over Parkhurst Library roof collapse
Following the collapse of the Parkhurst Library roof, library and information services management returned to clear the books ahead of severe weather conditions.
It’s been a bad couple of weeks for the Parkhurst Library.
According to a sign posted on the door on July 23, the library had been temporarily closed, but for how long is unknown. It was a good thing it was closed, because on July 31, the roof collapsed.
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Following the collapse, over the weekend of August 8 and 9, library and information services management removed books and other materials from the library, before the severe weather conditions could cause damage.
The Parkhurst Residents and Businesses Association (Praboa) had been in constant communication with the City of Johannesburg regarding the library and efforts to protect its contents.
Ward councillor Tim Truluck said the collapse was devastating, and that the magnitude of damage appeared serious.
“It is very sad to see the collapse of the roof at the Parkhurst Library. We are waiting to see the outcome of the insurance report. From the looks of it, the library will have to be completely rebuilt.”
He said the speed at which the roof collapsed startled the community. Resident Matthew Myers stated that the community is devasted by the state of the library.
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“The library is a treasured part of the Verity Park precinct, and is well used right across the community. Residents are genuinely upset at what’s happened.”
He added that the city’s library and information services management’s quick removal of the books came as a relief.
“We’re grateful to the city for salvaging the books and storing them safely, and to Praboa, for how quickly it rallied residents behind the effort. We’re anxious to see progress on rebuilding.”
Myers noted that they are hoping that the city and Praboa will work together to rebuild, and to prevent further deterioration of the facility.
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