The Observatory Library has been a valuable resource for over a century, and this month it celebrates 128 years.
A celebratory event was held at the facility on Friday 20 March, which coincided with South African Library Week (Monday 16 to Sunday 22 March).
Long before the library’s doors opened, the seeds of learning were already being planted.
A public meeting was held on 20 October 1898 about establishing a library in Observatory. Resident Stephan Trill had donated land for the construction of a library.
This proposal was accepted and a library committee was elected. In November 1898 temporary premises were found, Clyde Villa, c/o Drake and Station roads.
Resident James Davidson was appointed as librarian. Back then the library was named the Observatory Road Public Reading Room.
Cleolaine Delmore, senior librarian, explained that plans were drawn up for the library although it was only built and opened in 1906.
“Library material was moved from the temporary premises on 28 March, and it opened to the public on 29 March 1906. The library was officially opened on by Dr Gill from the Royal Astronomical Observatory.”
According to Delmore the library was incorporated into the Cape Town City Library Service, a free municipal library service in March 1954.
While water and ablution facilities were installed for the first time in 1955.
She notes that in the early days the library was used by clubs and associations
Over the years the facility has undergone various changes, the children’s section was started in 1948 and enlarged in 1974.
Fast forward to today the library offers various programmes for young and old.
These include story time for pre-school children, youth programmes and computer classes for adults.
“Observatory Library is a source of pride for its community. We as Observatory Library staff acknowledge that we need to preserve its heritage and hope to do so with the assistance of the Friends of Observatory Library.
“At the same time, we want the library to stay relevant which means the services had to adapt to the current needs of the community whether through digital resources such as PressReader and Libby, adult programmes, and creative events that invite new generations to see the library as their own.”
Delmore said exciting new programmes are on the cards including chess, coding and knitting clubs, which will be rolled out in due course.
Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services and health, said the Observatory Library is one of several ‘grand old dames’ in the City’s Library and Information Service.
“It’s not only a historic building, but a popular and longstanding community hub. The library offers many programmes for young and old, and I want to encourage our residents to join these events and discover for themselves what a special place it is.”
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