A New Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the City of Cape Town and individual Friends of the Library (FOCAL) groups. Through this collaborative partnership, both the organizations aim to support and strengthen the City’s Public Library Services.
The new MOU will provide official recognition to FOCAL groups volunteers for their continuous efforts to keep the library services active and accessible across the city. According to reports, FOCAL groups support the City’s libraries through practical initiatives including raising funds, sponsoring programmes, repairing books and advocating for the local libraries.
Moreover, the City has 101 public libraries across Cape Town with 59 FOCAL groups currently supporting local libraries. Through the new partnership, the City aims to expand the number of FOCAL groups from 59 to eventually cover all 101 public libraries.
The City also explained that the MOU is designed to expand the community driven support to more libraries across Cape Town. The initiative also strengthens the connections between residents and the City’s Library and Information Services (LIS) Department.
Francine Higham, City Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health stated that through the agreement administration acknowledges the efforts of volunteers of FOCAL groups.
She said, “This agreement affirms the City’s appreciation of the Friends of the Library and their invaluable contribution to our communities”.
She further explained that the partnership is not just about supporting or expanding the access to them, but also making libraries inclusive space for education and skills development. Under the new MOU the duties and responsibilities of the City, LIS and FOCAL groups will be clarified, helping to strengthen their work in supporting public libraries.
Mike Klink, Chairperson of the Friends of Central Library mentioned that the MOU provides an opportunity for greater collaboration and the creation of a broader network. He said, “Our patrons and communities will reap the benefits of greater access to books, education, community programmes and skills development in our library spaces”.