Dunoon library will remain closed until further notice after heavy rains caused flooding on the first floor and electrical damage earlier this month.
Residents have been left frustrated by the closure.
Khaya Jikela says he studies in the library. “I’m a student at the College of Cape Town. So I usually go there even when it’s not exam time. I like the place because it’s quiet and I get to further my knowledge on other world subjects. I went there Monday (last week) and kept going there but was met with closed doors and a hand-written sign saying they are closed due to flooding. I was so confused because I’m aware that this library cost around R40 million to build but somehow it’s affected by flooding. Someone has to explain this,” said Mr Jikela.
Some parents of primary and high school pupils say the library offers a safe place for their children to spend their days away from the sometimes bad influences in the community.
Phumela Mbombo, a parent of a 10-year-old boy and 15-year-old girl, said that it was disappointing to see the premises closed.
“As soon as my kids finished their exams, they couldn’t wait to spend their time at the library. I guess I’m lucky I have children that want to spend time there. But the place was closed and we kept hoping the issue will be fixed soon enough but still nothing. Many kids and adults in our community love using the library and now it’s such a shame it is closed. I’m not using the lack of services as an excuse for mischievous children, but children need to be kept busy especially during holiday times,” she said.
Thembelani Ndabezimbi, a community activist and full-time civil engineering student at the Cape Peninsula University of Cape Town, said he felt disappointed.
“That was the only place I was using to study since we are still busy with final exams. I don’t stay on campus and can’t afford to go there everyday, so the library was very useful for my studies. I planned my studying schedule using its opening hours, Monday to Friday from 11am till 5pm, then Saturday 9am till noon. I hope they will open soon,” he said.
Mayoral committee member for community service and health, Patricia van der Ross, said the flooding began in the week of June 12 because of the heavy rains. She said the Smart Cape area, ECD corner, staff offices and the boardroom were all flooded as a result.
“Computers and telephone lines were also affected. Another notification for repairs was logged. Initial assessments showed that water has damaged two DB boxes (Electrical Distribution Board). The assessment with regards to costing is ongoing,” she said.
Ms Ross said that it was unfortunate that library patrons could not use the facility during the crucial time of exams due to an unforeseen emergency.
“The Library and Information Services envisages to use the hall and partner with other stakeholders to cater for the forthcoming holiday programmes. The library will continue to offer outreach programmes to crèches,” she added.