Joburg libraries promote literacy and coding during Literacy Week

The City of Johannesburg's Libraries and Information Services (LIS), a directorate within the Department of Community Development, joined communities around the world in marking International Literacy Week from 5 to 11 September 2026.

The week included International Literacy Day on 8 September, an annual observance supported by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco).

As part of the celebrations, Drieziek Library hosted pupils from nearby schools. The learners participated in spelling bee activities, spelling words such as “literacy", “international" and “bookworm". They also read books to test and improve their reading skills.

Library staff highlighted the importance of reading and how strong literacy skills can help learners succeed at school and in life. Pupils were also encouraged to become library members so they can borrow books and make greater use of the library's resources. The week concluded on Friday, 11 September, when Blackheath Library staff visited Northcliff and Robin Hills schools to introduce Grade 6 and 7 learners to Rangers Coding.

Working in teams, learners arranged physical puzzle tokens in a specific order to create step-by-step instructions. The game introduced repeat commands, helping players optimise their code and reduce repetitive actions.

Using an African wildlife conservation theme, the game also explored the consequences of poaching while learners solved coding puzzles. This unplugged activity encouraged logical thinking, problem-solving, pattern recognition, communication and decision-making. The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development, Cllr Thapelo Amad, joined the City's libraries in marking International Literacy Day.

“As the City, we join the global community in celebrating this important date. Our libraries continue to play an important role in equipping young people with literacy skills. Our services are not limited to reading; they also include coding, writing and other skills that prepare learners for a competitive world. We urge communities to continue using libraries and to take good care of the facilities and books provided," said Cllr Amad.

International Literacy Day has been observed annually on 8 September since 1967. It highlights the importance of literacy in building more just, peaceful and sustainable societies.

Literacy is a fundamental human right that opens the door to greater freedoms and the enjoyment of other rights. Despite progress, millions of young people and adults worldwide still lack basic literacy skills, while many children are not achieving minimum reading proficiency.

Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso
14/09/2026

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