Public libraries in Cape Town are being upgraded, restored and reopened in key community spaces. Millions of rand are being spent to modernise libraries where residents study, access the internet and find safe spaces to learn – especially young people.
Public libraries in Cape Town are being upgraded, restored and reopened in key community spaces
According to the City of Cape Town, the work stretches from major expansions to fire recovery and long-overdue repairs. Big projects already underway.
In Lwandle, the Hector Petersen Memorial Library is getting a major boost. The nearly R14.9 million project began in March and will double the size of the library. Completion is expected by December 2026. The goal: a modern, accessible and user-friendly space.
In Browns Farm, the local library is being rebuilt after protest damage in August 2023. R1.5 million has already been spent on external repairs. Interior upgrades are now underway. Full reopening is expected by mid-2027.
In Khayelitsha, the main library is set to officially reopen next month. The facility was badly damaged by fire in 2024. The reopening marks a major step in restoring services to the community.
Libraries are essential community spaces
The City says libraries are essential community spaces. According to Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham, Cape Town’s libraries are among the city’s most used public facilities. More than seven million visits were recorded in 2025. The city operates 102 public libraries.
She says libraries are safe spaces where children do homework, job seekers go online, families borrow books, and communities connect. Residents are also urged to help protect and look after these facilities.
More libraries are getting upgrades
Several other libraries are seeing improvements:
Woodstock Library: New paint, kitchen tiling, upgraded restrooms, emergency exits and roof work
Tafelsig Library: New gutters, entrance paving, paintwork and roof repairs
Langa Library: Painting, roof and gutter cleaning, tiling, window repairs, plus a new parking area and wheelchair-accessible ramp — completion expected by the end of May 2026
Nazeema Isaacs Library (Khayelitsha): A R4.5 million revamp including roof repairs, waterproofing, new flooring, upgraded halls, improved restrooms and more power points — reopening set for 8 June 2026.
