The iconic Johannesburg City Library, first opened in 1935, is undergoing critical upgrades, including roof repairs, fire protection systems, and building compliance measures.
The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has been undertaking renovations, roof repairs and fire protection systems upgrades at the City Library on behalf of the City of Johannesburg’s Community Development Department.
The scope of works is to ensure that the library complies with Emergency Management Services (EMS) by-laws and National Building Regulations, works is as follows:
• Building works (alterations, waterproofing, carpentry and joinery, ceilings, partitions, access flooring, floor coverings, ironmongery, metal work, glazing and paint work).
• Mechanical installations (HVAC, fire protection, smoke detection and toilet ventilation).
• Electrical installations (This section will place emphasis on the statutory approvals that are required for the project.
In early October, the JDA hosted a stakeholder forum meeting about the Central Library. Some of the outcomes from the meeting include:
• A common goal was reached that the opening of the library in early 2025
• Safety and compliance with City by-laws
• Greater and harmonious stakeholder consultation
One of the key undertakings for the opening of library, as per EMS approval process, is the inclusion of a 300-kilolitre plus fire water tank that also has a pumping system. The current library’s water pressure is low for an emergency event such as a fire.
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