In 2017, community activist Terence Crowster opened a library after noticing the low levels of literacy in schools. The library is situated in a gang hotspot in Scottsville near Cape Town.
When the library first opened it only had 30 members. By 2021 that figure had grown to 500.
Terence started off the library by creating libraries contained in old shipping containers. He fitted the containers with shelves and loaded them with books and this immediately attracted the children off the street who had a hunger and desire to read and to learn in a safe space Terence now, in 2022, has six libraries with over 1000 children registered as book borrowers.
The library is run professionally with a helper and books are taken out and returned on the borrower’s card. As well as providing a safe space for the kids, Terence also organizes a feeding scheme for them and over 4000 children are fed by this scheme at these safe places each month.
The Society of St Vincent de Paul has been involved with the library and assisting them for many years and our regular monthly grant to them feeds 800 – 1000 children every month.
This is fantastic work being done through these libraries, giving the children a square meal as well as a safe space to interact, read and learn.
The children also have access to counseling services, a variety of board games and sporting activities.