City Library to open new chapter

The Johannesburg City Library is a cherished landmark that has served the community since 1935.

The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) hadn’t been undertaking renovations, roof repairs, and fire protection system upgrades at the City Library on behalf of the City of Johannesburg’s Community Development Department. The scope of the work is to ensure the library complies with Emergency Management Services (EMS) by-laws and National Building Regulations, which include building works, mechanical installations, and electrical installations. In early October, the JDA hosted a stakeholder forum meeting with and about the City Library. Some of the outcomes of the meeting include a common goal reached that the opening of the library be in early 2025, safety and compliance with city by-laws and greater and harmonious stakeholder consultation. One of the key undertakings for the opening as per EMS approval process is the inclusion of the 300-kiloliter plus fire tank that also has a pumping system. The current libraries water pressure is low for an emergency event such as a fire. Other requirements include fire doors to be changed to Gregorian Wire, 120 minutes fire walls to stop the spread of the fire at exposed staircases, in between floors and basements. The elimination of tripping hazards throughout the building and signage, including emergency signage. The JDA, in consultation with stakeholders, is being inclusive in the resolution of the pump being aesthetically pleasing. In response, the JDA calls for creative minds to curate public art that will cover and visually integrate the tank and pump into urban fabric while reflecting the library’s rich history. In the last two months, tank-sizing, positioning, a proposal on cladding, due consideration of stakeholder inputs on the tank, SMME identification and scope definition, and completion of certain works have been achieved.