| Region G libraries |
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Region G has nine libraries. Besides offering normal library services, most of them are also involved in a wide variety of activities directed at different groups. The following projects are run on an ongoing basis:
Early childhood development
There is a City reading programme aimed at nursery and pre-school readers.
Primary school learners
There are two projects targeting primary school learners - Battle of the Books (first language learners) and Story Skirmish (second language learners). All nine libraries in the region are involved in two citywide book quiz competitions and try to encourage schools from the area to participate in the competition. The competitions start with library rounds within the region before progressing to elimination rounds between the different regions. They conclude with a final.
School pupils
School library capacitation involves training volunteers at the region's various libraries, after which they assist their own schools in setting-up a school library. The project is aimed at job creation and skills development for young people and gives pupils an opportunity to work as school librarians. The pupil librarians are paid by the schools' governing bodies.
Street children
The Siyafunda Project was initiated to target the problems and challenges faced by street children in the Lenasia area. The aim is to empower them through educational means. The programme was launched to coincide with a visit by the City's executive mayor and focuses on four major areas: literacy classes are conducted daily by trained library literacy co-ordinators; there are crime and drug awareness sessions with the South African Police Service; basic needs are addressed and parcels for feeding schemes and blankets are sponsored by various businesses; finally the project looks at employment, with a car wash at the Lenasia Civic Centre giving the children the opportunity to earn an income.
Adults
Abet classes and adult literacy classes are held at the Lenasia, Ennerdale and Orange Farm libraries on a regular basis with trained literacy co-ordinators.
Senior citizens and the disabled
Craft and reading sessions are held monthly, at which participants are taught various skills such as fabric painting, decoupage and candle making.
Reading picnics
Reading picnics are held at various libraries to encourage reading in a fun and exciting way. The picnics take place at a variety of venues, such as in the park, at the pool and even on the train, in conjunction with Metro Rail.
Toy library
A toy library has been set up with the Down's Syndrome Association to encourage learning and to promote inclusion within the community.
Science and technology events
A number of science and technology programmes and fairs are held at various libraries.
Literacy Carnival
An annual 5km fun walk is held to promote reading and literacy. The event attracts about 800 to 1 000 participants and concludes with a variety programme featuring poetry recitals, dance and speeches.
Special programmes and events
Readathon, Heritage Day and Aids Awareness programmes are held at various libraries.
Reading sessions
Reading sessions are held at all the libraries and with various schools.
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