LITTLE LIBRARIES

Since the launch of Kingswood’s first Little Library on Monday 23 June, located next to the playpark between Knightsbridge and Hamilton roads, this project has been benefiting readers young and old.

Whether for devoted bookworms or first-time discoverers of the wonder of stories, these well-placed book exchange hubs have proved a resounding success since inception six months ago. The brain behind KGE’s Little Libraries, of which two have now been erected on the estate, is long-time resident Su Carter.

She has supervised the manufacture and installation of accessible mini libraries to promote reading and community engagement. And, according to social experts, creating connections among people through the written word is one of the best parts of a book-exchange programme. Apart from fostering a love for reading, it also offers other significant benefits, such as discovering new authors and genres, and promoting sustainability by reducing the production of new books.

Reading and discussing books with friends – or strangers soon to become book buddies – have been proven to advance mental wellbeing. A project like Kingswood’s Little Libraries also democratises access to literature while cutting down on waste and, considering the cost of new books, positively impacting readers’ pockets.

A bit of background

Having grown up on the Cape Peninsula, Su lived inland (Welkom and Secunda) for 37 years. ‘Hubby Geoff and I spent part of our honeymoon in George 48 years ago and visited the town regularly over the years, as we had family living here. ‘On a visit in 2008 we bought a plot at Kingswood and built a house on the estate. In 2015 we moved down and became proud Georgians.

We are both keen golfers and members of Kingswood Golf Club, and we hit the area’s beautiful hiking trials as often as possible. ‘As retired squash coaches, we still play regular league matches. I’ve also retired from tutoring English, but have spent many years teaching the language to immigrants primarily from Poland, Israel, Zaire and many other countries.’

Su’s passion and its simple principles

Established in communities around the globe, the Little Libraries concept entails small book-sharing boxes based on a ‘take a book, leave a book’ system. When chatting to The BUZZard, Su was thrilled with the progress of her passion project. ‘I’m proud to share that our second library is on the verge of its official opening at the park in Trafford, at The Oval, as soon as we have signage.

But residents are welcome to borrow books as it is already well stocked, and we will have a celebratory drink to open it officially once signage has been completed. ‘It’s only a pleasure for me to manage the libraries, keeping them stocked with a variety of books for both children and adults,’ says Su. Kingswood’s Little Libraries offer a mix of fiction, nonfiction, and kids’ literature. Residents are encouraged to visit, borrow, and contribute books any time. ‘I hope that this is just the beginning, with more libraries to be erected across the estate.’

Considering a captive market of nearly 2,000 Kingswood residents, Su’s aim is to see more people reading and swapping books. Judging from the vibe at the launch event, this goal may be well on its way to being attained. Operational manager Piet van Heerden was on hand to take pics during the opening of the first library and, judging from images on this page, community cheer was indeed the order of the day. ‘

When Kingswood’s First Little Library launched, residents gathered during an event filled with friendly conversation, reading, snacks, and drinks – making it a fun and meaningful community moment,’ beams Su, adding that the best way to promote this wonderful initiative is through a team effort.

‘We are hoping to grow Kingswood’s love for reading, one book at a time. All donations of books in a relatively good condition are welcome.’ If you’d like to contribute or join the Library WhatsApp group, please contact Su on 082 469 6152, email info@kingswood.co.za or drop books off at 11 Brookside