Johannesburg City Library - the treasures of the stacks

From its humble beginnings in a hastily erected corrugated iron building in 1893, the Johannesburg City Library has grown into an impressive collection of over 1.5 million books and manuscripts.

Join JHF expert guides Sandy Murray and Alison Wilson to hear how activists like the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation championed the reopening of the library following its indefinite closure in the wake of the COVID pandemic. Marvel at the gravitas of the library’s architecture and learn about legendary librarian Anna Smith, who insisted that everyone must have access to reading regardless of their race.

Our special guest, senior Library Assistant Elton May, will also guide us through the 4 levels of subterranean archives (known as the stacks) and share his enthusiasm for the library’s impressive collection of rare manuscripts, books and historic maps.

We will meet in the foyer of the Johannesburg City Library. It is suggested that you Uber to the library as parking is scarce. Wear good walking shoes and suitable clothing. Please note: some visitors may find that the 4 levels of subterranean archives are warm and claustrophobic.