The City of Cape Town’s Masiphumelele Library now has an additional first floor room, which will serve as a dedicated adult learning centre.
‘The late Ben Turok, an anti-apartheid activist, donated R1 million towards building the room and he specifically wanted it to be used as an adult learning centre. He wanted to leave a legacy for the community that would lead to their ongoing upliftment, especially for the elders. After he passed away, his widow Mary honoured his wishes and continued with the endeavour, which was managed by The Rotary.
‘We are honoured and proud to have been able to carry out his vision. The space will greatly enrich the lives of residents and I encourage our patrons over 18 years of age to utilise the library services and become actively involved in programmes designed especially for them. The different skills workshops that will be presented in the new centre will lead to the development and empowerment of the community,’ said the City’s newly elected Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.
At the moment, the library is running Book Club sessions and recently accommodated Deafnet (a week long workshop on sign language) at the centre.
Future plans include community workshops, business skills and other programmes designed to enhance adult development.