The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) and the City of Johannesburg have been actively engaged with residents regarding the ongoing works to reopen the Johannesburg City Library. These engagements have been crucial in addressing community concerns and ensuring transparency about the project’s progress.
Following these consultations, the library is set to reopen partially in the first quarter of 2025 following the start of works in September 2024. This phased reopening will initially include sections such as the ground floor and the children’s section. The remaining areas, including the basements and the second to fifth floors, are expected to open later in 2025.
Collaborative Heritage Engagements:
In a positive development, the JDA has been working closely with the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation to address concerns about the visual impact of the new fire water tank on the historic library building. Initially designed as a single tank with a capacity of just under 300 kilolitres, the plan has been revised to split it into two smaller tanks. This change ensures that:
- Neither tank will obstruct the first-floor windows.
- The symmetry of the building is preserved.
- The visual impact on the surrounding square is minimised, with the tank height reduced from over six meters to approximately four meters.
- These changes reflect a collaborative effort to balance heritage preservation with modern safety requirements.
Construction Milestones:
As of now, the project has achieved 22% overall progress. Key milestones include:
Electrical Works:
- Lighting: 85% complete
- Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS): 70% complete
- Generators: 100% serviced and repaired
- Distribution Boards (DBs): 90% complete
- Plugs: 80% complete
Fire Protection:
- Fire extinguishers: 100% installed
- Signage: 90% complete
- Fire hose reels: 100% installed
- Fire hydrants: 100% installed
A contractor has been appointed for a 10-month project duration, with work being completed in two sections:
- Section 1: Expected completion in third quarter of the current financial year, focusing on areas for partial reopening.
- Section 2: Expected completion by first quarter of the next financial year, addressing the remaining floors and systems.
The City of Johannesburg, through the JDA, remains steadfast in its commitment to reopening the Johannesburg City Library as soon as possible. It recognises the significant impact the library’s closure has had on students, researchers, and the broader community. This project is a priority, and every effort is being made to expedite its completion while adhering to policy and ensuring quality outcomes.
The Johannesburg City Library is a cornerstone of our city’s heritage and a vital resource for education and knowledge. The City thanks residents for their patience and support as it works to restore this iconic space.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
