Cape Town has issued update on Lwandle Library project. An updated risk assessment for the planned major upgrades of the Hector Pieterson Memorial Library in Lwandle has remained determined.
As it is best to close the entire library while the works are under way, in the interest of public safety and security. The closure took effect on Monday, March 02, 2026.
Reportedly, the Hector Pieterson Memorial Library is undergoing through a R14.8 million upgrade over the next six months. Construction is set to get under way in the coming days and will double the library’s size.
The project will deliver additional study spaces, a bigger children’s section and improvements to the SmartCape facilities for all user groups.
Considering this, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham stated that initially, the project team anticipated that a partial closure might be necessary during the final phase of the project. As the updated construction plan has highlighted a number of potential public risks.
Higham said that the library will therefore be closed for the duration of the construction and until the team is satisfied that the site is safe for patrons and staff. City of Cape Town apologises for the inconvenience, and they appreciate the understanding of the community as they work towards realising this long-awaited upgrade.
Furthermore, the Patrons are able to access services at neighbouring libraries for the duration of the closure. These include Strand, Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West and Sir Lowry’s Pass libraries.
The Lwandle Library will continue its weekly Wednesday programmes at Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs) and pre-schools in the community. These institutions will also receive bulk loans, which will be then circulated among them for the mentioned limited period.
Notably, the community members of Lwandle Library will be kept informed timely as the construction project keeps on progressing.