DURBAN - CITY libraries have become a soft target for criminals who steal computers, photocopiers and other equipment.
This was revealed in a report tabled before eThekwini Executive Committee (Exco) members yesterday. It also indicated that library staff members had been held at gunpoint and had their belongings taken by thugs in some instances.
The report, “State of Libraries”, had been requested by Exco members following growing concerns that these important community facilities were in a state of decline in the city.
Dr Musa Gumede, deputy city manager, Community and Emergency Services, told Exco members that libraries had continued to be the main information source for community members, despite predictions of a decline in demand because of the emergence of modern technology.
“Patronage is still very high and the demand for the services offered by libraries remains high,” the deputy city manager said at the meeting.
According to the report, libraries continue to make invaluable contributions to recreational, cultural and educational needs of communities.
“This is evident from the number of community members who continue to frequent libraries. Despite all the challenges, libraries remain the lifeblood and breadbasket of ardent readers and those who require access to technology and online media.”
While the report said there was a “satisfactory state of affairs” in terms of the facilities, the levels of crime raised concern.
“In more brazen cases, security guards have been held up while crimes are being committed. There are instances where staff and patrons have been held up in broad daylight and robbed of their belongings,” the report said.
“In a recent case, a staff member was shot by criminals who were robbing patrons at uMlazi W Library in March last year. The spate of crimes perpetrated in libraries are becoming a major concern as they endanger staff and patrons,” the report said.
The report further indicated that the libraries were not spared during the July riots last year.
“The effects of July 2021 unrest are still being felt in many communities to this day. The Reservoir Hills community was left without a library after it was gutted by fire,” said the report.
KwaMashu, Dassenhoek, and Montlands libraries were also damaged.
Apart from ageing infrastructure, according to the report, load shedding had also affected the quality of the service offered by libraries as in some instances they had to close because equipment could not work.
“Some libraries are forced to close their doors for the safety of staff and patrons who also lose out, as they are unable to access the library services,” the report said.
Another challenge highlighted by the report is the purchase of new books. Alarmingly, the report indicated that no new books were bought for libraries owing to the expiry of the tender for new books in 2017.
Other challenges listed include budget cuts from the Arts and Culture Department which:
Have hampered the procurement of equipment and services.
Have resulted in the reduction of a plant and equipment budget, making it nearly impossible to purchase new furniture.
Have seen libraries going without high-end security in the form of personnel and CCTV cameras.
The Independent Municipal and Allied Trade Union leader in eThekwini, Queen Mbatha, said they were concerned about the safety of their members.
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