Cape Town spending millions to upgrade its libraries

Cape Town is investing millions of rands into upgrading and restoring public libraries across the city to create safer, more modern community spaces for learning, studying, and internet access.

On 25 May 2025, the City of Cape Town announced that public libraries across the city were on track to receive major upgrades.

The city said it was investing millions to improve spaces where residents, especially young people, learn, study, and access the internet.

From a major expansion in Lwandle to restoration work in Browns Farm and the reopening of Khayelitsha Library after fire damage, the projects aim to strengthen safe public spaces for residents of all ages across the city.

The city said the upgrade and extension of the Lwandle Library, also known as Hector Petersen Memorial Library, is progressing well following the commencement of works in March 2026.

The project is valued at nearly R14.9 million and is set to double the library’s size. The expected completion date is December 2026.

The aim is to create a modern, accessible, and user-focused environment that continues to offer spaces where residents can learn, study, access the internet, and spend time safely.

While there may be a widespread belief that libraries are largely unused, Cape Town’s 102 public libraries received over seven million visits in 2025.

Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, said this makes Cape Town’s libraries among the most well-used public spaces in the city.

“In our many communities, libraries are safe spaces where children do homework after school, job seekers access the internet, families borrow books, and residents take part in programmes that support learning and wellbeing,” Higham said.

“We also encourage residents to help us care for these important public spaces so that they continue serving communities for many years to come.”

The libraries being upgraded

The Brown’s Farm Library is beginning a new chapter following extensive damage during protest action in August 2023.

External refurbishment work valued at R1.5 million has been completed, with interior upgrades now underway. The library is expected to reopen fully to the public by mid-2027.

The Khayelitsha Library’s official re-opening ceremony will take place in June 2026 after severe fire damage in 2024, marking a significant milestone in restoring services to the community.

Several other facilities have also seen extensive renovations. This includes Woodstock Library, which has received notable interior upgrades.

These include a new coat of paint, new kitchen tiling, and the installation of upgraded restroom facilities, emergency exits, and roof reinforcement.

At Tafelsig Library, upgrades included replacing the gutters, new paving at the main entrance, paintwork, and roof repairs, completed earlier this year.

With work scheduled for completion by the end of May 2026, Langa Library is also undergoing upgrades, including interior and exterior painting, roof and gutter cleaning, tiling, and repairs to window sills.

To enhance functionality and inclusivity, the refurbishment includes the development of a dedicated parking area and the installation of an accessible ramp for people living with disabilities.

Nazeema Isaacs Library in Khayelitsha is undergoing a R4.5 million revitalisation project, and is scheduled to officially reopen to the public on 8 June 2026.

This project aims to improve its infrastructure and long-term sustainability by repairing roofs and ceilings, waterproofing, installing new flooring, and painting.

The project features completely revamped public restrooms and library halls, repaired foyer paving, and the installation of additional power outlets to help users charge devices while accessing Wi-Fi.