Cultural Affairs and Sport

The Department plans to ensure that the Western Cape Public Library Services Act (Act 1 0f 2025) strengthens equitable access to library and information services across urban and rural areas through several measures. The Western Cape Public Library Services provides a clear framework to strengthen equitable access across the province. It mandates the development of Guidelines to Norms and Standards for Public Libraries which addresses the establishment of services and infrastructure to ensure that libraries meet the minimum requirements for accessibility and quality, subject to the availability of funding.

             One of the criteria for funding allocation is identifying areas with critical need where there have been no services before and helps bridge gaps in rural and underserved communities.

              Equitable Access: Section 2(2) of The Act specifically promotes equitable access for persons with disabilities and other historically disadvantaged groups.

• Section 3 (2) of The Act provides for Capacity Development and requires the Head of Department to promote capacity, skills, and resource development for library staff, facilitate cooperation between the Department and library administrators, and providing financial assistance to municipalities for library functions, subject to available funds

             Resource Provision: Section 2(3) allows the Provincial Minister to provide, where appropriate, necessary infrastructure, including buildings, furniture, equipment, and library materials, to support accessibility.

             (b) How will the Library Bill redefine the responsibilities of municipalities in   relation to the management of public libraries and

               Response:

               The responsibilities of municipalities did not change but was formalised with the Act; these include amongst others:

1. Assignment of Functions: The Provincial Minister may assign all or part of the administration of certain functions related to public libraries to Municipal Councils through a written agreement.  This agreement must outline the roles and responsibilities of the municipality, the Provincial Minister, or the Head of Department, as well as funding arrangements for the assigned functions (Section 5).
2. Provision of Premises and Operating Costs: Municipalities, as public library administrators, are required to provide the premises for public library services, cover the operating expenses for the day-to-day running of the libraries, and appoint necessary staff (Section 6(1)).
3. Reporting Obligations: Municipalities must submit reports on matters related to the public libraries they manage upon request from the Provincial Minister or the Head of Department (Section 6(2)).

          These measures ensure clarity, accountability, and a structured approach to municipal involvement in public library management.

              (c )         What specific measures will be taken to ensure that libraries remain safe and welcoming spaces for vulnerable populations?

             Response:

            The Public Library Services Act 1 of 2025 provides for Regulations that will regulate access and conduct of the staff and the public to ensure that libraries remain safe and welcoming spaces.  The previous Regulations have been repealed and will be replaced   with new Regulations.  The current Local Authorities Standard Bylaw 640 of 1990 addresses behaviour in libraries, which will be addressed by the new Regulation

          Section 10 of the Act requires the Provincial Minister to promote equitable access to public library services, including for persons with disabilities and other historically disadvantaged groups, thereby reinforcing the obligation to maintain inclusive, safe and supportive library environments. Together, these regulatory and legislative measures collectively ensure that libraries uphold safety, dignity and inclusivity for vulnerable and priority populations.