In Cape Town, libraries are taking innovative steps to bridge the digital divide and promote reading among the youth. The introduction of tablets and gaming consoles in July 2022 has significantly increased the engagement and excitement of young patrons towards libraries.

Reducing the Digital Divide through Fun and Learning

During the pandemic, children in poorer communities lagged behind in their education due to the lack of access to technology and online platforms. In response to this disparity, the City’s libraries have taken a proactive approach to ensure equal access to technology and knowledge for all children. According to Councillor Patricia van der Ross, the Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, libraries are reducing the digital divide in a fun way.

Bellville South Library: Granting Access to Technology

The Bellville South Library, serving a diverse community with large clusters of sub-economic areas, was granted tablets in August 2022. The introduction of tablets greatly expanded the opportunity of young patrons to engage with technology in a fun and enjoyable manner.

However, the popularity of the tablets led to long waiting lines. To address this issue, the library staff implemented a creative solution. Children waiting in line are required to read to a staff member before using the tablets. This initiative has proven to be highly successful, with numerous learners improving their reading skills and gaining confidence in their abilities.

Athlone Library: Incentivizing Reading through Video Gaming

The Athlone Library introduced video gaming in 2016 as a means to motivate young patrons to read by offering incentives. To play games on Fridays, Saturdays, and school holidays, children must borrow books, read them, and provide librarians with either a written or verbal review. This exchange of game time for reading has been successfully implemented in several other City libraries, such as Delft, attracting a steady influx of young patrons for not only gaming but also studying and socializing.

The Tangible Impact of Technology on Reading Skills

Councillor Van der Ross emphasized the tangible difference the introduction of tablets has made in children’s lives, particularly at the Bellville South Library. Not only are children being exposed to new technology, but their reading skills are also improving.

Bridging the Digital Divide: A Continuing Program

The tablet rollout began in 2022 with the distribution of 66 tablets to 13 libraries, followed by 99 tablets to 19 libraries in 2023. The program is set to continue for the rest of the year, further bridging the digital divide and promoting reading among Cape Town’s youth through a blend of technology and innovation.