Building a Community of Readers in Prince Alfred's Hamlet

The opening of a new library in Prince Alfred’s Hamlet was celebrated by the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) and Witzenberg Municipality on Friday 14 November 2014.

This modern facility was built in response to a request from the community of the town. Funds were allocated from a Conditional Grant managed by the DCAS Library Service.

Speaking at the event, Joyce Mabhudafhasi, National Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, said that a lack of literacy is one of South Africa’s key challenges. “A book has the power to take you to different places. It can motivate you and grow your knowledge”, she said. Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Dr Nomafrench Mbombo thanked the community and the local municipality for assisting with the delivery of this project. “Without being exposed to books, I wouldn’t be where I am”’ said Dr Mbombo.

The two ministers earlier attended the raising of the South African flag at St Marks Primary School. This forms part of a national Department of Arts and Culture project to foster a sense of patriotism, national pride and sense of identity in schools.

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and its partners are promoting reading, education and patriotism in the Western Cape, better together.