It has been over a year that Paseka Matsaneng of Mohlakeng has to travel long distances to access a library.
This was due to the fact that the library in Mohlakeng Extension 7, which is just a stone’s throw from his house, was closed.
Paseka and the other youngsters said the library is gathering dust, it no longer has books and the ceiling is collapsing.
“We just want to know what is going on with the library because it has been like that for a year and a half.”
Paseka said it is sad that young people now have to travel to other neighbourhood libraries to do research and other school projects while their own library is becoming a white elephant.
Sphelele Ngema, 19, who said it was difficult to apply for a tertiary education course, said it is even more frustrating that nobody in the community has any details about the situation.
“Instead of accessing a library facility for free, I now have to spend money to do so.
“When you do go to some of the neighbouring libraries, you find them all packed to capacity, which is inconvenient for the locals,” Sphelele said.
Paseka said on behalf of the frustrated youth that they believe that the Gauteng Department of Education or Rand West City Local Municipality should intervene.
“It’s been too long now; we are saying enough is enough!!” he added.
Upon visiting the library, the Herald spoke to a worker who did not want to be identified, but said people are advised to go to other libraries in other areas in the interim.
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