Anger as Sandton Library parking lot shuts down

Complaints have come to light from library goers who had been refused parking at the Sandton Library parking lot and were forced to pay for parking at Nelson Mandela Square.

“This means students who need to use the library will have to pay for parking at Nelson Mandela Square,” said Megan Salvi, a library user.

She did not think it was fair that students who need to spend hours at the library will now have to pay for parking.

Keith Elliot, the chairperson of Friends of the Sandton Library said he shares people’s concerns about the Sandton Library parking lot and that he was also trying to get some answers. “Unfortunately I am only the book man who does the community outreach work, and I can’t give you any answers,” said Elliot.

“Official comment can only come from the Strategic Communication Department of the Group Communication and Tourism Department of the City of Johannesburg,” said Margaret Houliston, from the office of the regional manager for libraries.

Lesego Puso who was attending a book launch at the Sandton Library was also unhappy that she had to park at Nelson Mandela Square.

“I even fought with the security guard who was outside when they wouldn’t let me park in the library parking lot,” she said. “I really don’t understand why we can’t use the facility anymore. Some answers would be nice.”

This is a developing story. We will bring you more information as it becomes available.