Patrons of the Hector Peterson Memorial Library will be temporarily redirected to nearby libraries as the facility undergoes a comprehensive R14.8 million renovation over the next six months.
The affected community will have access to services at Strand, Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West and Sir Lowry’s Pass libraries during the closure period.
The construction project, which set to begin in the coming days, with the closure taking effect today (Monday 2 March), will double the library’s current size and deliver significant improvements including additional study spaces, an expanded children’s section and enhanced SmartCape facilities for all user groups.
While the project team initially hoped to maintain partial operations during construction, updated safety assessments have necessitated a complete closure for the duration of the work.
“Initially, the project team anticipated that a partial closure might be necessary during the final phase of the project, but the updated construction plan has highlighted a number of potential public risks. The library will therefore be closed for the duration of the construction and until the team is satisfied that the site is safe for patrons and staff. The City apologises for the inconvenience and we appreciate the community’s understanding as we work towards realising this long-awaited upgrade,” said Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health.
Despite the closure, the library will maintain its community presence by continuing weekly Wednesday programmes at Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs) and preschools in the area. These institutions will also receive bulk book loans that will be circulated among them throughout the construction period.
Community members will be kept informed as the construction project progresses.
