New Dimbaza public library to accommodate the blind

On Tuesday of last week, Nonceba Kontsiwe, the MEC for the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC) in the Eastern Cape, officially presented the Dimbaza Public Library to the Dimbaza community. In response to a request from the Eastern Cape Braille and Print Institute, this library now has a small collection of books for the blind.

It is stated that before, blind people who wanted to access a library would be taken to King William’s Town once a week. Additionally, the library is expected to help nearby schools and promote frequent library use in the community.

The Eastern Cape DSRAC MEC spoke about the benefit of having the local library. “Local schools stand to gain. You must use this library; we came to encourage you to read. We wish to eradicate illiteracy and have an educated nation. We want people who can read, and we want the youth who are here now to have Dr. next to their names in the future,” Kontsiwe stated.

Parents were asked by the MEC to encourage their children who wish to read. She also asked them to motivate the children who are reluctant readers to pick up a book. She stated that reading was not just for children; it could also be enjoyed by adults.

“Reading hone[s] and activates the mind. The library is not just for children since we older people also need to keep our minds fresh, therefore reading is helpful to us. You prioritize your concerns to the point where you lose sight of your mental health, which is an important aspect of physical health. As a result, you should utilize libraries, particularly this one,” stated Kontsiwe.

Yolani Rhongwana a matric pupil at Richard Varha High School shared here enthusiasm about having a local library. “I am ecstatic. Now that we can complete our homework in the library, we will be able to improve our school marks and satisfy both our parents and teachers. Even make ourselves proud; our futures will be bright, and I am grateful,” remarked the matric pupil.

The day honouring International Mother Tongue fell on the opening day of the small library for the blind. This day recognises the significance of linguistic, cultural, and multilingualism diversity. The day acknowledges how multilingualism and languages may promote inclusivity. It promotes inclusion of all people and diversity. The most efficient means of human communication is language, which also plays a significant role in the formation and maintenance of culture and ethnicity.