Billions spent on libraries since 2007
2010-09-03 20:16
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Johannesburg – More than a billion rand has been spent on community libraries in South Africa since 2007, the National Library said in a statement on Friday.
The money was part of a conditional grant the arts and culture department gave to public and community libraries.
National library spokesperson Andrew Malotle said the conditional grant was first given in 2007. It was used to upgrade public and community libraries.
"The provinces have utilised the conditional grant funding to build and refurbish libraries, public internet access, job creation and staff training, equipment, furniture and books, reading and literacy programmes, mobile library services and containers for outreach to rural areas," he said.
Malotle said a national priority was to promote a culture of reading in the country, and develop writers and publishing books in all local languages.
The statement was released as the National Library prepared to celebrate National Book Week for the first time next week.
"The National Library of South Africa celebrates National Book Week with the South African Book Development Council and the national department of arts and culture."
The inaugural National Book Week 2010 will be held at Museum Africa, Newtown, Johannesburg from September 6 to 13.
- SAPA