Membership of the City of Johannesburg libraries can be accessed on the cojelearning.org.za website, and residents of all ages are welcome to join their local library by just clicking on the joining link and fill in the online form to become a member.
One of the problems that members of the community encounter at local libraries is not being allowed to take out any books on the basis that one does not have a library card, and the library not issuing any type of card.
The Northsider visited the Weltevreden Park Library to find answers on what happens when community members are not allowed to take out books even though they have an online membership.
According to Region C Senior Librarian, Gwyneth Perry your online membership entitles you to physical books as well.
Your library must allow you to borrow books with the number issued to you, so as long as you can provide the number emailed to you, you can borrow physical books.
“Members are requested to select the library they will be using when submitting their applications. This membership entitles members to borrow physical books with a full membership at their library, as well as e-books on the Libby App. Once the application has been submitted there is a waiting period of three to four working days, and an email will be sent to them with their library user number. They are then welcome to bring the email to the library to activate full membership and begin borrowing books,” said Gwyneth.
Upon being accepted, the library will issue the user with a membership number, and the general waiting period for a member to be processed is five working days.
If one wishes to take more than five books at a time a membership fee of R30 will apply. Members of the community are encouraged to find out more by contacting their local library.
The registered member is responsible for all the library material issued on the membership number, and are liable for the upkeep of books and the return of these books on time.
Membership expires after three years, and users can renew their membership for free, but they will be held liable for any lost books and will be charged the full price of the particular book.
The community is reminded to treat the library building, collections as well as other library users with the utmost respect.
The Library and Information Services Directorate is the local gateway to knowledge and provides basic access for education and lifelong learning, as well as intellectual development for all citizens in the City.
City of Johannesburg public libraries are hubs of education, giving residents access to books, magazines and audio-visual materials to assist with studies; and career, business and personal development.
Besides lending out material, the City’s 89 libraries offer a wide range of other services including literacy classes, storytelling sessions for youngsters, classroom support, gatherings for older residents and literary competitions.
Libraries also provide venues for lectures, exhibitions, community meetings and organised training sessions.
