MUST READ: Free access to books for Alex residents
EAST BANK – Free access to books which can be weapons to succeed and overcome obstacles in life.
Alexandra school children and the community, in general, have been introduced to a free and procedure-free access to books.
This is after Massmart South Africa, in collaboration with a local emerging artist Sifiso Gumede, launched a new outdoor library that contains 500 books of different genres in Atrec Recreation Centre in East Bank on 18 June.
Speaking at the launch, Massmart communications manager Ziphezinhle Msimango said, “Massmart envisions libraries as centres for individuals to gather, learn, explore and interact. But more than anything else, this library is based on community and trust.
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“There are no staff policing you, no membership cards are issued or fines if one fails to return a book. You just take a book and return it when you are done.”
The 2,8-metre structure, contains African fiction, general fiction, non-fiction, politics, entrepreneurship and motivational books by great global business leaders.
Sifiso, who started doing art at the age of seven, dreamed of opening an art school in Alexandra one day, said he is very grateful that he is part of the initiative and is looking forward to seeing community members taking advantage of the resources.
“Any project with fewer formalities is likely to be well received by the community and youngsters. People don’t like formalities. The fact that the structure is located outdoors in a community facility makes it easy for people to come and pick a book and read,” said Sifiso
Regional manager from the Department of Sport and Recreation in the City of Johannesburg, Elsie Mokgoebo, thanked Massmart and Sifiso for the initiative and urged the community of East Bank to look after the structure and its contents.
A variety of sports kits were also donated to local netball, rugby and soccer teams.
Details: 011 517 6041; refilwe.boikanyo@massmart.co.za
