After a trial month in June, libraries across the City of Johannesburg will follow in the footsteps of six of its clinics and extend their operating hours.
Extended operating hours were officially launched at 10 of the City’s regional libraries in July. This follows the extension of six clinic’s hours across the City, including Randburg and Zandspruit.
Now, Jabavu, Sandton, Orange Farm, Ennerdale, Ivory Park North, Florida, Protea North, Yeoville City Library and Diepsloot libraries will stay open longer.
READ: Longer hours for City libraries
Libraries across Joburg currently operate at various times. Most libraries are open weekdays from 9am until 5pm, with none open after 6pm. On Saturdays, they are open from 9am to 1pm and are closed on Sundays.
The extension of these operating hours will see libraries stay open from 1pm to 5pm on Saturdays as well. Libraries will also stay open later during the week and on Sundays once the City ensures that it complies with the relevant labour laws.
Executive Mayor Herman Mashaba said he believes the extended hours will ensure that young people – especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds –have safe learning and studying environments after hours.
“Since piloting this project on 3 June, more than 2 000 users have benefitted from the extended operating hours.”
Mashaba said public libraries carry a huge responsibility to provide free and equal access to information. He encouraged residents to make use of the extended hours and help take care of their libraries.
The City’s customer service centres also extended their operating hours earlier this year. The centres stay open until midday on Saturdays.
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