National Book Week 2016 Celebrated On The West Coast

In celebration of National Book Week from 6 to 8 September 2016, the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) rolled out this important campaign to the West Coast communities of Vredenburg, Saldanha Bay and Hopefield. The occasion was launched by Minister Anroux Marais at the Weskus Mall, Vredenburg. The project is a partnership between DCAS, South African Book Development Council, the Department of Arts and Culture and the Saldanha Bay Municipality.

This year the campaign highlighted the importance of books and featured the theme #Buyabook and #Readabook. The campaign encouraged the public to buy new books and donate them to those who do not have access to books at home.

The programme included a vibrant reading presentation by learners from Masiphatisane Primary School and a traditional dance performance by Diazville Primary School. Learners were enchanted by the appearance of Bhuki, the library mascot, and Funda Bala, the mascot for the National Book Week Campaign. South African singer, songwriter and National Book Week Ambassador Chad Saaiman captivated the audience with his story on how reading helped him to achieve his dreams and survive in times of adversity.

In support of the #Buyabook and #Readabook Campaign, Minister Marais handed book donations to the learners of Diazville Primary and Masiphatisane Primary School. She emphasised the importance of reading and said: “Let us rediscover the joys of reading and the power held in the pages of the many books we can engage with.”

DCAS is committed to building knowledgeable and informed communities. Let us continue to celebrate books, reading and libraries, BETTER TOGETHER.