The long-awaited community library in Musina Nancefield is finally complete. The total project value of the building is R2.8 million. The project is funded by the provincial department of sport, arts and culture.

The state-of-the-art library consists of a circulation area where thousands of books and other material will be kept. There is also an audio visual room, a cataloguing section, an informal reading area, children’s library activity room, a spacious reading area, ablution facilities, access control area and a kitchen. The building is also user friendly to the disabled.

Mayor Carol Phiri of the Musina Municipality says the building of the library is a demonstration of the good working relationship between her municipality and the provincial government. “The municipality works closely with all spheres of government to deliver efficient services to all community members.”

She says libraries play a very important role in promoting the progress of knowledge. “Individuals can’t afford to buy books on their own because the prices are very high. Even those who are better off can’t afford to buy all the books they require for their studies. Books are man's best friends. They give him company equally in times of happiness and in times of distress. They are one of the main sources of knowledge. The best place for easy access to books is a library.”

Phiri adds that some pupils find it very difficult to do their studies at their homes due to various reasons. “The library will be an asset to the learners who will be able to prepare for their examinations with ease. The ambience, peaceful and scholarly atmosphere will help them to concentrate more on their school work. Libraries will always be there to indicate the presence of a well-read and educated society.”

Lydia Banda (14), a Grade 8 pupil of Musina High School, says: “I’m very happy that we will soon be able to use the library at our doorstep. We thank all involved and there is no doubt that the library will continue to promote literacy in our area.”