AfriForum welcomes recommendation to Tshwane Metro for libraries to remain open on Saturdays

AfriForum welcomes a recommendation by Zukiswa Ntsikeni, Group Head of the Tshwane Metro’s Department of Community and Social Development Services, to her colleagues and the City Manager to keep libraries in this metro open on Saturdays. This is in line with AfriForum’s similar request to the Tshwane Metro which was made after notices about the closure of libraries on Saturdays, from 10 May 2025, became known.

According to Alana Bailey, AfriForum’s Head of Cultural Affairs, libraries are still an essential source of information and entertainment for a large part of the community who do not have ready access to data and digital or printed books or, for whatever reasons are obliged or prefer to read printed books. “Books and data are very expensive, so people who are well-off can do without library services, but for the most vulnerable in society, it is their only source of access to publications on fact and fiction, as well as even connectivity and online resources. For people who work or study during the week, or are dependent on people who work for transport, Saturdays are the only day they can visit libraries. For this reason, it is necessary that libraries in Pretoria and Centurion be accessible on Saturdays,” she says.

Ntsikeni’s letter also underlines these needs and emphasises that budgetary measures, such as a shift system, must not interrupt the delivery of this important service.

AfriForum launched an online poll last week to gather the public’s comments on the planned closure. The majority of respondents are in favour of keeping libraries open, and support efforts to do so on Saturdays.

“Ntsikeni’s letter proves how important public pressure is – the public’s requests have been heeded. We hope that the Metro’s management will take note of her opinion, as well as the input from AfriForum and other organisations, and ensure that libraries do not have to let their users down,” Bailey adds.