Local school reopens revamped library
The library also consist of a space for extra literacy classes with the assistance of Allianz and First Things First who are already aiding learners with one on one reading lessons on Saturdays.
Diepdale Secondary School had a day filled with celebrations as they unveiled their new library which was refurbished by The Bookery in partnership with Ninety One on October 20.
The previously dull room referred to as the school library is now bright and waiting for the learners to use.
According to The Bookery managing director, Luyanda Nqadolo, the room now consists of about 4500 books which are covered in catalogues and put into a system that allow learners to take home for reading and return to the library, including non-fiction books, study guides for the Grade 11 and 12s.
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“The capacity of the room will depend on the library use. If its reading, the space can fit about 30 learners and if its individual study time on the tables it can fit about 16 learners and also we have some carpets that can fit about 10 learners,” Nqadolo said.
The library also consist of a space for extra literacy classes with the assistance of Allianz and First Things First who are already aiding learners with one on one reading lessons on Saturdays.
“The library is for all learners but we understand that this school has a high capacity so we requested that they prioritise it for the Grade eight and nine learners for reading classes depending on their timetable. Since we are based in Cape Town, we have the two companies oversee the space.”
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This is the 95th library donated by The Bookery and the first in Gauteng and it comes with a trained library assistant who will be working with the school and learners for a period of three years.
“We want to give learners access to learning material that will be beneficial to their future.
“We are now looking at library 100 and are hoping they will be from Gauteng because ours is to create dynamic school libraries that inspire a love of reading, break barriers and change lives.”
Diepdale Secondary School principal, Johannes Mnakisi said the library will benefit the entire community.
“We still have learners who cannot read for meaning. This means the library is going to eradicate all the reading challenges that my learners have. We believe that it will improve their vocabulary, reading skills, numeracy and literacy,” Mnakisi said.
He added that the school will also be allowing learners from neighbouring schools to come and utilise the library on weekdays to expand their knowledge.
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The school SRC deputy president, Sphamandla Nkosinathi Zondi said, “As a passionate reader, books have given me a chance to explore the world in the comfort of my own home. I believe that the library will have a positive impact on our future as leaners.”
