Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis Unveils Revamped Khayelitsha Library
Cape Town – Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has officially launched the renovated Khayelitsha library after significant restoration work.
The library suffered considerable fire damage in 2024.
The restored library reopened on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, revealing an impressive transformation that provides a welcoming and bright environment for the community.
Key repairs included a new roof and ceiling, painting and wall repairs both inside and out, new flooring and tiles, updated public restrooms, as well as improved lighting, electrical systems, and network infrastructure.
“I’m thrilled to be here today to unveil the enhanced Khayelitsha library,” remarked Mayor Hill-Lewis.
“My hope is that this library serves as a valuable asset to the community, becoming a space for children and residents to borrow books, enjoy quiet study sessions, listen to music, or simply come together.”
Mayor Hill-Lewis highlighted that the library reflects the high standards of care and service that “we strive to provide” for every resident of Cape Town.
“We believe that all individuals, irrespective of where they live, deserve top-notch community facilities like this library,” asserted Mayor Hill-Lewis.
“This signifies the dignity we wish to offer to all residents of Cape Town, and I take pride in knowing that the Khayelitsha community will benefit from this library.”
The City operates 102 libraries throughout the metro, which recorded over seven million visits last year, with library membership growing to over 253,000.
“In the coming three years, we plan to invest R227 million in library enhancements, resources, books, and subscriptions,” announced Mayor Hill-Lewis.
Renovations commenced in October 2025, with the total investment in the Khayelitsha Site B Library renovation project approximating R3.1 million.
“Today signifies not only the reopening of a building… but also the revival of an essential service for our wider Khayelitsha community,” said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
“This library exemplifies what a dignified public service facility should be – clean, secure, accessible, and conveniently located for all residents.”
“I hope this library becomes a place where children develop a love for reading, young people prepare for their futures, residents embrace opportunities, and the community continues to gather, learn, and grow.”
Councillor Francine Higham, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, stated: “We encourage the community to help us protect this vital facility and work alongside our dedicated staff here.
“This team showed 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 construction phase.”
“Once the renovations were complete, the team efficiently unpacked and reorganized all books back on the shelves, showcasing impressive dedication and effort.”
In addition to the renovated Khayelitsha library, the City has recently improved facilities in Woodstock, Tafelsig, Langa, and the Nazeema Isaacs Library in Khayelitsha.
Other noteworthy projects currently in progress include:
- Restoration of the Brown’s Farm library after extensive damage in 2023
- Expansion of the Lwandle Library, also known as the Hector Petersen Memorial Library
Site B Library hours of operation
The upgraded Khayelitsha Site B library will officially open to the public on Wednesday, June 24 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.