Moses Kotane Primary School​ has emerged victorious in the City of Johannesburg's annual Battle of the Books competition, beating 190 participating schools to claim the championship title. Mikateka Primary School secured second place, followed by Basa Tutorial Institute in third place and Franklin D Roosevel​t Primary School in fourth. The four finalist teams went head-to-head in a thrilling competition hosted by the City's Library and Information Services at the newly reopened Louisa Prince Public Library in Ennerdale Extension 9.

The competition celebrated reading, knowledge and teamwork, with learners demonstrating their understanding of the selected books through challenging rounds of questions. Quiz master Lesiba Matlatle, a senior librarian, shared his experience of preparing for the competition, revealing that he had to read 10 books to adjudicate the contest.

“The real challenge is when you make a mistake, because the learners know the material so well. They will call you out on it. It has been an incredible and exciting journey," he said.

During the event, Director of Library and Information Services Nobuntu Mpendulo officially announced the reopening of Louisa Prince Public Library, which welcomed patrons back on 1 October 2026 following extensive renovations.

Mpendulo also announced extended weekend study hours at 11 selected Johannesburg libraries during the examination period. The libraries will open on Saturdays and Sundays from 09h00 to 14h00, between 24 October and 22 November 2026.

“This initiative gives learners a quiet and safe place to focus on their studies during exam season," she said.

The Battle of the Books competition highlights the City's commitment to promoting a reading culture, supporting academic development and providing learners with opportunities to grow their knowledge and confidence. Moses Kotane Primary School finished third in the Story Skirmish finals in 2024 and 2025.

Written by Dr Karabo Semenya
23/10/2025

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