Khayelitsha Youth Bring Community Library Back to Life

Khayelitsha — What began as a small clean-up drive has become one of the most talked-about youth projects on the Cape Flats this winter.

ANC Youth League members teamed up with local teachers, parents, and retired librarians to reopen a community library that had been closed for more than three years.

Volunteers repainted walls, repaired shelving, catalogued donated books, and set up a homework corner with desks and reading lamps.

Grade 11 learner Asanda M. said the space already feels different from school: "Here we can study quietly, help each other, and dream bigger."

The branch plans weekend reading clubs, matric support sessions, and a book donation drive with nearby schools.

Ward organisers say the project shows how youth leadership can deliver tangible community benefits without waiting for large infrastructure budgets.