Isivivana Centre
Library
Our quiet, well-stocked and orderly Library has a valuable and extensive catalogue of books, research material and resources for students and members of the public to enjoy.
With 29 fully functioning workstations and free and stable Wi-Fi, our Library and the adjoining Classroom provide a quiet and safe space for learners to do their homework, conduct research and complete assignments. Jobseekers can use the workstations to update their CVs, browse employment sites, and submit job applications.
The Library runs various educational and skills workshops, supervised homework sessions, storytelling time for youngsters, and hosts book launches.
Our library co-ordinator and her assistant are always on hand to assist young learners with their homework and research needs, and our dedicated team of volunteers (from Breaking Beliefs and Year Beyond) ensures the Library stays orderly and provides a quiet and conducive environment for everyone who steps through its doors.
Our Library is open to all members of the community, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. We believe that access to information is a basic human right, and we are committed to empowering learners to achieve their full potential. Come and visit us today!
Library membership is free.
Visit our Library today to become a member.
Library Opening times
- Mondays to Fridays: 09:00 – 17:00
(Adults and University Students can utilise the library 09:00 – 14:00;
School Learners, 14:00 – 17:00). - Saturdays: 09:00 – 13:00 (open to all members)
- Sundays: closed
- Public holidays: closed
Library Resources and facilities
- Free and stable Wi-Fi connection
- Free membership
- Computer workstations
- Fiction and non-fiction books
- Up-to-date newspapers
- Classroom
LIBRARY PROGRAMMES
LIBRARY EVENTS
Storytelling Book Club
Books are special! Our book club aims to foster a love for books and reading by encouraging children to read both English and isiXhosa books rather than just gaining information and entertainment from digital platforms.
Masikhule Book Club
Our book club brings people together to discuss and review books and share their opinions. We also discuss newspaper articles and current affairs and encourage respect for one another’s opinions.
Homework Classes
Regular classes are held to assist learners with homework tasks and provide vital support to children who do not otherwise have the help that they need.
Art & Craft Sessions
Our creative art and craft classes help children express themselves and share their stories through painting and drawing. Children’s confidence is enhanced when they can showcase and present their work.
Grade 11 and 12 Study Programme
We offer a quiet and supervised space for Grade 11 and 12 groups of students to research, study, practice and prepare for their exams.
Digital Skills Assistance
Computer literacy is an essential skill. This programme focuses on teaching children the importance of knowing how to use computers effectively so that they carry out online research for their assignments.
Book Launches
Our Library hosts regular book launches, giving members of the community an opportunity to meet and engage with authors and publishers. Recent book launches have included Umbhoxo – Making Rugby an Afrikan Game in collaboration with Ukufezwa Kweminqweno Publishers, and A Colouredful Life by Emil Jensen in collaboration with Heal the Hood projects and Kaltsha Kultsha.
Poetry & Jam Sessions
Come and express yourself! Our vibrant Poetry & Jam Sessions happen on the first Friday of the month and are hosted in collaboration with Bertha Movie House and Eh!woza.
National Library Week
Each year we celebrate National Library Week through a variety of programmes. Past programmes have included a workshop by the Centre for the Book focused on the importance of book clubs and how to set one up.
International Literacy Week
International Literacy Week forms an important part of our Library calendar. In recent years we have collaborated with Uhlanga Books Publishers to host fun “booknic” sessions for children. These events include storytelling, creative writing and reading sessions.
Financial Fitness Sessions
Financial literacy is essential for a successful future. African Bank has held sessions for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and Grade 12 learners to give them practical advice and insights on how to handle their finances.
Career Exhibition Day
Our annual Career Exhibition Day aims to expose learners to opportunities and provide them with information about study and work opportunities that are available to them once they leave school. This is conducted in collaboration with the City of Cape Town (Recreation and Parks), Department of Social Development, Iziko Museum and the Traffic Department.
Child Protection Week
Child Protection Week provides us with a platform to raise awareness about the rights, needs, and vulnerabilities of children. For this programme we collaborate with Pedal Projects, an innovative community-based mental health support programme which addresses children’s needs through mountain biking.
Holiday Programmes
Our annual holiday programme provides children with fun, informative learning activities to keep them busy and stimulated during their vacation time. It is hosted in collaboration Bertha Movie House and City of Cape Town (Recreation and Parks).
LIBRARY PROGRAMMES
Storytelling Book Club
Books are special! Our book club aims to foster a love for books and reading by encouraging children to read both English and isiXhosa books rather than just gaining information and entertainment from digital platforms.
Masikhule Book Club
Our book club brings people together to discuss and review books and share their opinions. We also discuss newspaper articles and current affairs and encourage respect for one another’s opinions.
Homework Classes
Regular classes are held to assist learners with homework tasks and provide vital support to children who do not otherwise have the help that they need.
Art & Craft Sessions
Our creative art and craft classes help children express themselves and share their stories through painting and drawing. Children’s confidence is enhanced when they can showcase and present their work.
Grade 11 and 12 Study Programme
We offer a quiet and supervised space for Grade 11 and 12 groups of students to research, study, practice and prepare for their exams.
Digital Skills Assistance
Computer literacy is an essential skill. This programme focuses on teaching children the importance of knowing how to use computers effectively so that they carry out online research for their assignments.
LIBRARY EVENTS
Book Launches
Our Library hosts regular book launches, giving members of the community an opportunity to meet and engage with authors and publishers. Recent book launches have included Umbhoxo – Making Rugby an Afrikan Game in collaboration with Ukufezwa Kweminqweno Publishers, and A Colouredful Life by Emil Jensen in collaboration with Heal the Hood projects and Kaltsha Kultsha.
Poetry & Jam Sessions
Come and express yourself! Our vibrant Poetry & Jam Sessions happen on the first Friday of the month and are hosted in collaboration with Bertha Movie House and Eh!woza.
National Library Week
Each year we celebrate National Library Week through a variety of programmes. Past programmes have included a workshop by the Centre for the Book focused on the importance of book clubs and how to set one up.
International Literacy Week
International Literacy Week forms an important part of our Library calendar. In recent years we have collaborated with Uhlanga Books Publishers to host fun “booknic” sessions for children. These events include storytelling, creative writing and reading sessions.
Financial Fitness Sessions
Financial literacy is essential for a successful future. African Bank has held sessions for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and Grade 12 learners to give them practical advice and insights on how to handle their finances.
Career Exhibition Day
Our annual Career Exhibition Day aims to expose learners to opportunities and provide them with information about study and work opportunities that are available to them once they leave school. This is conducted in collaboration with the City of Cape Town (Recreation and Parks), Department of Social Development, Iziko Museum and the Traffic Department.
Child Protection Week
Child Protection Week provides us with a platform to raise awareness about the rights, needs, and vulnerabilities of children. For this programme we collaborate with Pedal Projects, an innovative community-based mental health support programme which addresses children’s needs through mountain biking.
Holiday Programmes
Our annual holiday programme provides children with fun, informative learning activities to keep them busy and stimulated during their vacation time. It is hosted in collaboration Bertha Movie House and City of Cape Town (Recreation and Parks).
Contact our Library
Our experienced library co-ordinator Olwethu Mduma, and her assistant are available to answer your questions.
Visit our Library today to become a member.
Isivivana welcomes donations to help keep our Library well stocked and current. To find out how you can contribute, contact bulelwa@isivivanacentre.org.za
