Kirstenhof Primary School pupils donate over 2000 of their most loved books to share with children of Westlake. A few of the primary school's pupils are pictured, in the back row, with their principal Stuart Payne; WUCT librarian Bertha Molefe; Tokai resident, Cecile Antonie and KPS librarian, Helen Donnell.
Image: supplied
Over 2 400 books were donated to Westlake United Church Trust’s library on World Book Day on Wednesday, April 23, inspiring the love of reading and making books more accessible to Westlake children.
The library was a concept that developed from a reading corner to a fully fledged library through the helpful donations of books and shelves built by Constantia Rotary (“Plan for reading haven in Westlake,” Bulletin, August 22).
WUCT librarian Bertha Molefe, who started cataloguing and classifying donated books at the end of last year, says there is still a need for supplies to get the library fully operational.
“It has been a wonderful opportunity to help create a safe and welcoming environment for the Westlake community to access books. The ECD’s have started bringing their children in for story-telling sessions which has been delightful.
“Some books have been issued and we look forward to opening the library to the wider community to enable more children to come, do their home, read books and for families to access our books for home reading.”
Ms Molefe says in addition to children's books, which have now been provided through the donation, the library is in need of volunteers, signage, book ends, blinds, mobile shelves/trolleys and step ladders.
Having heard the heartfelt appeal for children’s book donations, Kirstenhof Primary School librarian Helen Donnell, led the charge, encouraging pupils to bring books they loved and were willing to donate.
With the enthusiastic support of the school principal, Stuart Payne, 2 420 books were donated for the children of Westlake.
Cecile Antonie, of Tokai, who had arranged the public appeal for children’s books, says the response was nothing short of inspiring.
“The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and joy as students eagerly handed over their cherished books, knowing they would soon be read by new young readers. It was a beautiful example of children giving to children, and the smiles told the story best.
“At its heart, this day was a celebration of books — books that deserve to be read, shared, and loved. And thanks to the generosity of many young hearts, the joy of reading will continue to ripple through Westlake for a long time to come.”
An open invitation has been extended to Kirstenhof Primary School to visit the children of the Westlake library to foster connection and perhaps start a tradition of visits and shared learning between the two communities, Ms Antonie said.
World Book Day was marked by the City Libraries with reading competitions, storytelling sessions and literacy outreach programmes; supporting the City’s ongoing efforts to promote literacy and a love of reading. Between July 2024 and March 2025, libraries hosted: 6 136 storytelling sessions; 640 reading programmes; and 796 book club meet-ups.
These numbers underscore the determination of our Libraries and Information Services to get people hooked on books, says the Mayoral committee member for community services and health, Francine Higham.
“Reading is a critical tool for learning and expanding our understanding of the world, and by improving literacy rates, we empower young and old. Libraries remain vital hubs for education and lifelong learning, and World Book Day serves as a reminder of their enduring role in strengthening communities.”
Bertha Molefe, who has been the librarian of Westlake United Church Trust since November, has been busily been cataloging and classify books.
Image: Janice Matthews
Westlake United Church Trust's library is a well used resource in the community, where residents check out books and children come for sessions of storytelling.
Image: Janice Matthews