Since its official opening three months ago, the City of Johannesburg’s Lehae Library has been improving the lives of community members and creating a brighter future for its users.
Located on the corner of Iris and Primrose streets in Lehae, south of Johannesburg, the library has become a hub for learning and literacy for community members of all age groups.
Children from the local pre-schools have found a new home in the library as they take part in early child development (ECD) programme designed to promote social and emotional development in children. This includes storytelling sessions, art and craft workshops, numeracy and literacy activities.
Jacqueline Shikishi, the Principal of Sponge Bob Day Care who has been bringing her children to these programmes, shared her thoughts on the transformative impact of Lehae Library’s ECD initiatives.
“Bringing my children to Lehae Library’s early childhood programmes has been a game-changer for our school. The library provides resources and experiences that we simply do not have access to,” said Shikishi.
She said the interactive story telling has ignited a love for books in her children. “I feel grateful to the library for playing such a huge role in my children’s growth. This library is not just a library but a hub of exciting knowledge and opportunities.”
Tshepang Lekwene, the Senior Librarian at Lehae Library, said it is usually packed with pupils who come in to study and research for assignments or seek homework assistance.
Sharon Chauke, a student at Unisa, expressed her appreciation for the valuable addition to the community. She said before the library opened she had to travel far to access a library in Lenasia Extension 1.
Lehae Library officially opened its doors on 25 May 2023.
“I am grateful to have such a beautiful and resourceful library in our own community. The staff is incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. They’ve made me feel welcomed from day one.”
Sapna Ragunanan, an Assistant Director at Region G Libraries, expressed her delight about the community’s enjoyment of the services provided and affirmed the City’s commitment to delivering an excellent array of hybrid programmes and services to enrich the literacy levels of community members.
She said they were thrilled to see residents embrace and benefit from the library services.
“We remain dedicated to providing a diverse range of hybrid programmes and services that will further enhance the literacy skills of our community members,” stated Ragunanan.
The library also offers career guidance, computer skills training, assistance with NSFAS and bursary applications, support for job seekers and resources for mental health.
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