During the Woman’s month, arguably one of the most important libraries in Africa reached its 90 year milestone. Housing more than 1.5 million books and serving over 250 million members, the Johannesburg City Library (JCL) is one of Africa’s most cherished public treasures.
The Johannesburg City Library building was constructed from 1930 to 1935 and opened its doors to users on 6 August 1935. The Johannesburg City Library (JCL) nestled in the heart of the City Business District stands as a testament of resilience.
The JCL 90th year celebration and official re-opening was attended by Joburg residents from all walks of life who were excited to be part of the momentous occasion. The foyer of the JCL could barely handle the number of people who had come to witness the historic moment.
“Coming back to this place is emotional as I was last here as a student in 1979, this was the only place we had that we could access books and information, because our community libraries in black and brown communities where sadly under resourced,” said Rosely Manning from the Johannesburg Crisis Alliance.
The journey to restoring the JCL to its former glory has not been easy. The City of Johannesburg Department of Community Development and the Johannesburg Development Agency have worked tirelessly to revive the iconic building.
“Today we stand at the intersection of history, heritage and hope. We are here to celebrate not just the reopening of a building but the revival of a civic institution that embodies the soul of Johannesburg, said the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg Cllr Dada Morero.
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