Johannesburg’s historic library is set to reopen after 5 years following extensive renovations.
Johannesburg, South Africa (30 July 2025) – The final chapter is almost here! Calling all bookworms, history enthusiasts, and city lovers to get ready to turn the page on an exciting new chapter! After years of dust, the Johannesburg City Library is almost ready to open its doors again, and it is looking better than ever.
The most recent milestone has been restoring its iconic parquet flooring. Those beautifully patterned wooden tiles that hold stories have been carefully revived to their former glory. Better than ever! From removing damaged tiles one by one, to installing matching replacements, levelling floors, and refinishing the surface. Every step has been a kind of love letter to the library’s historic character.
Spearheaded by the City of Joburg through the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), the refurbishment project has been about much more than just fixing up a building. It is about restoring a beloved cultural landmark to its rightful place in the heart of the city.
Closed since 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions and overdue renovations, the library has long been missed by researchers, students, casual readers, and curious tourists. But now, the long wait is almost over!
Earlier this year, the library had a partial reopening which welcomed an enthusiastic crowd. The event marked the first phase of the library’s reopening, with full restoration just around the corner.
The library’s full reopening will not only bring back access to thousands of books and resources, but also revive a key public space for learning and community connection. With every detail carefully restored, the corridors will soon be filled with the sounds of turning pages and a community of eager minds at work.
So, dust off your library cards and prepare for a grand return.
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