In recent months, the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) and the City of Johannesburg have actively engaged with residents regarding the ongoing works to reopen the Johannesburg City Library (JCL). These engagements have been crucial in addressing community concerns and ensuring transparency about the project’s progress.
As confirmed during these consultations, the library is set to reopen partially in quarter one of 2025 following the commencement of works in September 2024. This phased reopening will initially include sections such as the ground floor and the children’s reading section. The remaining areas, including the basements and the second to fifth floors, are expected to open later in the calendar year 2025.
KEY PROJECT UPDATES:
Collaborative Heritage Engagements:
In a positive development, the JDA has been working closely with the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation (JHF) to address concerns about the visual impact of the new fire water tank on the historic library building. Initially designed as a single tank with a capacity of just under 300 kiloliters, the plan has been revised to split it into two smaller tanks. This change ensures that:
- · Neither tank will obstruct the first-floor windows.
- · The symmetry of the building is preserved.
- · The visual impact on the surrounding square is minimized, with the tank height reduced from over 6 meters to approximately 4 meters.
- · These changes reflect a collaborative effort to balance heritage preservation with modern safety requirements.
Construction Milestones:
As of now, the project has achieved 22% overall progress. Key milestones include:
Electrical Works:
- · Lighting: 85% complete
- · Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS): 70% complete
- · Generators: 100% serviced and repaired
- · Distribution Boards (DBs): 90% complete
- · Plugs: 80% complete
Fire Protection:
- · Fire extinguishers: 100% installed
- · Signage: 90% complete
- · Fire hose reels: 100% installed
- · Fire hydrants: 100% installed
Project Timeline:
The contractor has been appointed for a 10-month project duration, with work being completed in two sections:
· Section 1: Expected completion by March 2024, focusing on areas for partial reopening.
· Section 2: Expected completion by July 2025, addressing the remaining floors and systems.
Commitment to the Community:
The City of Johannesburg, through the JDA, remains steadfast in its commitment to reopening the Johannesburg City Library as soon as possible. We recognise the significant impact the library’s closure has had on students, researchers, and the broader community. This project is a priority, and every effort is being made to expedite its completion while adhering to policy and ensuring quality outcomes.
The Johannesburg City Library is a cornerstone of our city’s heritage and a vital resource for education and knowledge. We thank residents for their patience and support as we work to restore this iconic space.
