Iviwe Phandulwazi Mathe, a dedicated teacher and passionate isiXhosa activist from Lower Malepe-Lepe Primary School in Tsolo, is appealing to Good Samaritans for assistance.
He seeks donations of literacy books or a room to expand the library classroom he started in 2021.
Mathe explained that his goal in establishing the library was to help learners in an area without access to a library and to promote a culture of reading.
“I wanted them to understand what a library is and how it works. The library serves learners from my school and even those who have completed Grade 12. If these Grade 12 learners are not able to enrol in tertiary education, they spend their time here reading.”
However, Mathe highlighted a significant challenge: the library is too small to accommodate everyone.
He added that when they come to use the library, they often find it full, and there is not enough space.
Another issue is the lack of age-appropriate books. Mathe explained that most of the books available are not suitable for primary school learners.
“I wish we could mix books to cater for all age groups. I’m currently writing a letter to ask for help. I even visited Tsolo Library, and while they donated some books, there’s still a shortage.”
In addition to being a teacher, Mathe is a well-known isiXhosa author and activist committed to empowering learners with knowledge.
He has even helped some of his students publish a poetry book.
Reflecting on the library’s beginnings, Mathe said that when he arrived at the school, he noticed a lack of spaces where learners could freely access books and gain knowledge.
“Even though the Department of Education encourages learners to read, there’s no place for them to do so freely.
“I asked for permission from the principal to repurpose an unused, dilapidated classroom that was being used to store damaged books. That’s how the library began.”
He started the library with his personal collection of 50 isiXhosa books and encouraged learners to read, care for the books, and read for both understanding and enjoyment.
According to him, he also appointed learners to manage the library, teaching them responsibility and management skills.
Mathe said rural learners often struggle with research projects due to a lack of accessible libraries in their communities.
Mathe continues to appeal to anyone willing to help, emphasising the transformative impact of libraries on young minds.
