Roodepoort Library, a cornerstone of the community in the west of Johannesburg, has been honoured with a Blue Plaque by the City of Johannesburg. This prestigious plaque is awarded to heritage sites of significance, highlighting the library’s rich history and architectural importance.
The Blue Plaque at the library reads: “This library was formerly the first permanent office for the Roodepoort-Maraisburg Municipality and was declared a National Monument in 1985. Completed in 1906, the building was designed by Charles Hoskins, with the west wing added in 1918 by the renowned architectural firm of Baker and Fleming. The building served as municipal offices until 1936. In later years, it housed local lawyers, doctors, the Park Boards, the Town Evaluator, the Director of Non-White Business, the first post office, the West Rand Historical Society, and a museum.”
Fast forward to 2024, Roodepoort Library stands as a vibrant hub, deeply rooted in the history of the area. The name “Roodepoort”, derived from Afrikaans for “red valley”, reflects the farm on which the town was originally developed. The local community and surrounding areas take immense pride in this historic building and the services it provides.
Thandiwe Gulwa, a Senior Librarian, and Sibongiseni Sibisi, a fellow Librarian, are both passionate about the library’s role in the community. Despite the advancements in technology, they firmly believe that the library as a physical space will remain relevant. “It’s a place where people gather to learn, study, or work in a quiet environment,” said Gulwa.
Sibisi added: “The library is especially busy in the afternoons and during exam periods, likely because it is in a central business area. Many people come here for business or work, and we see a lot of traffic from surrounding educational institutions.”
To stay current with the times, the library has embraced technology, created awareness, and offered digital lessons. “We host coding and digital literacy classes for nearby schools. Just yesterday, we had a group preparing for the upcoming Rangers Digital Competition at the Johannesburg Zoo on 28 August. We are confident that we will come out on top,” Sibisi added with a smile.
One of the library’s regular patrons, Boitumelo Lefophana from Braamfisher, expressed gratitude for the services offered. “I am a matriculant preparing for my exams, and I am thankful for the quiet space the library provides. Not everyone has the privilege of a peaceful environment at home.”
Sibisi concluded: “During the pandemic, when people were working from home, we saw a significant increase in the physical use of the library, as well as our online resources. We aim to encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of what the library has to offer.”
Roodepoort Library, located at the corner of Berlandina and Hodgson streets, Roodepoort, is open from 9am to 5pm. For more information, visit www.cojelearning.org.za
