Matric exams started yesterday, and with other grades following suit soon, the City of Cape Town’s libraries offer learners and students a safe space to study, conduct research and learn.
‘Our libraries offer learners a place to continue and complete the learning process and, for many of our young people, it’s the only quiet or safe space to study. They provide free access to educational materials to many who would otherwise be unable to afford them, in addition to study guides, the internet and other resources,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.
‘The City’s libraries complement the work done at schools and tertiary institutions and for many learners, the situation in their home or neighbourhood is not conducive to study, in addition to challenges like gaining access to online study material.
‘They are often the safest space and the one place where it is quiet enough to allow for study and knowledge retention,’ said Councillor Badroodien.
Through the SmartCape initiative, which provides free internet access to all library users, members of the City’s libraries can access all Britannica resources and, should they require, can have unlimited access to the service from any internet-enabled phone or other device for registered library users.
This means learners and students will have access to factually sound information that is updated on a regular basis, and which will be available to them at any time of day at their leisure. Content on the site is tailored according to the educational level of the user and the service also supports those for whom English is an additional language.
This service is another effort by the City to provide digital access to educational and other resources.
The City’s libraries also offer the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC), which is available remotely via the Internet and will save readers time when looking for library materials. It can also be accessed inside the library.
A single search returns results from the entire collection, including different formats of material such as books, CDs, magazines, etc. and shows the availability of material across the city’s libraries.
The search can be streamlined to indicate only a library of interest, or a search can be conducted for particular titles, authors, DVDs or even by subject.
‘Many of our libraries provide spaces dedicated strictly for studying. I want to encourage learners to make use of the space and opportunities provided,’ added Councillor Badroodien.
Learners are reminded that space is limited and bookings may be required, while there may be a time limit on sessions.
Covid-19 protocols remain in place and you are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing.
Source: City Of Cape Town
