​The Lwandle case is but one example of the far-reaching effects of vandalism and theft of critical City infrastructure. Apart from their core mandate, libraries also offer a gateway to the digital space for learners, jobseekers, entrepreneurs and the public in general through our SmartCape system. However, the service is under serious threat due to ongoing cable theft and vandalism.

Other libraries that have had interruptions to their SmartCape services as a result of cable theft include Sir Lowry’s Pass, Huguenot Square and Ravensmead.The Library and Information Service is trying to find alternative means of securing internet connectivity through a partnership with the City’s Information Services and Technology Department, but in many cases we rely on third-party service providers like Telkom who are also grappling with continued theft to the point of not wanting to replace stolen infrastructure in some cases.

​In spite of these challenges, the City presses ahead with its vision to increase SmartCape access at libraries. We have received 123 additional computers from the Western Cape Provincial Library Services for installation at 22 of our libraries. However the installation at 14 libraries was delayed as a result of either vandalism or theft at libraries including in Hanover Park, Grassy Park, Retreat, Rocklands, Nyanga, Heideveld, Manenberg, Scottsdene, Belhar, Lwandle, Mfuleni, Adriaanse, Bonteheuwel and Tafelsig.

We could likely increase our footprint even more, if we are able to get a handle on vandalism and theft. Apart from cable theft that impacts on internet access, telephone lines and electricity, our libraries are also battling other forms of vandalism and theft.

Since January 2019, there were 58 insurance claims for incidents at 30 of our libraries, totaling nearly R578 000. Ravensmead submitted seven claims.

That is a half a million rand that could have been spent on more computers or reading materials or other critical community services.

It also places a huge burden on tax payers.

Libraries are the heart of communities and offer a safe space for learning, relaxation and knowledge-sharing.

The City of Cape Town will intensify its efforts to curb theft and vandalism, but we call on communities for help, by not only blowing the whistle on criminals, but also being our eyes and ears and reporting any suspicious behaviour to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre by dialing 021 480 7700 from a cellphone.

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