Cape Town – Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has officially opened the newly renovated Khayelitsha library after substantial restoration efforts.
In 2024, the library experienced considerable fire damage.
The restored library welcomed visitors for the first time yesterday, Wednesday, 24 June 2026, highlighting a stunning transformation that creates a warm and inviting environment for the community.
Major renovations included roof and ceiling replacement, interior and exterior painting and wall repairs, new flooring and tiles, improvements to public restrooms, and upgrades to lighting, electrical, and network systems.
“I’m thrilled to be here today for the unveiling of the revitalized Khayelitsha library,” commented Mayor Hill-Lewis.
“I hope this library serves as a valuable resource for the community for many years, providing a space for children and residents to check out books, enjoy quiet study, listen to music, or simply gather together.”
Mayor Hill-Lewis noted that the library exemplifies the high standards of care and service that “we aim to deliver” for all Cape Town residents.
“We believe that everyone, regardless of where they live, deserves access to high-quality community facilities like this library,” said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
“This reflects the dignity we strive to afford all Cape Town residents, and I take pride in knowing that the Khayelitsha community will benefit from this library.”
The City operates 102 libraries across the metro, with over seven million visits recorded last year and a growing library membership exceeding 253,000.
“In the next three years, we plan to invest R227 million in upgrading libraries, resources, books, and subscriptions,” declared Mayor Hill-Lewis.
Renovations began in October 2025, with the total cost for the Khayelitsha Site B Library renovation project approaching R3.1 million.
“Today signifies not only the reopening of a building but also the restoration of a vital service for our broader Khayelitsha community,” said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
“This library exemplifies what a dignified public service facility should be – clean, safe, accessible, and conveniently located for all residents.”
“I envision this library as a place where children discover a passion for reading, young people prepare for their futures, residents seize opportunities, and the community continues to connect, learn, and thrive.”
The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, stated: “We encourage the community to help us protect this essential facility and work alongside our dedicated staff here.
“This team has shown remarkable commitment by carefully packing the entire library collection into around 300 boxes containing books, computers, and various materials for storage at other libraries during the renovation.”
“Once the renovations were completed, the team efficiently unpacked and organized all books back onto the shelves, showcasing incredible dedication and effort.”
Besides the renovated Khayelitsha library, the City has also upgraded facilities in Woodstock, Tafelsig, Langa, and the Nazeema Isaacs Library in Khayelitsha.
Other notable projects currently in progress include:
- Restoration of the Brown’s Farm library after severe damage in 2023
- Expansion of the Lwandle Library – also known as the Hector Petersen Memorial Library
Site B Library operating hours
The newly enhanced Khayelitsha Site B library will open to the public on Wednesday, 24 June at 14:00. The library hours are as follows:
Mondays to Thursdays: 10:00 – 17:00,
Fridays: 11:00 – 16:00
Saturdays: 09:00 – 13:00.
