The City of Cape Town is investing in faster, more reliable digital access by upgrading 590 SmartCape computers at 50 public libraries across the City. The project that is being implemented by the City’s Information Systems and Technology Department will, over time, see a technology refresh of all of the SmartCape computers at all the City libraries. Another 379 will be upgraded in future. The 590 computers that have been upgraded already provide faster and more reliable access for residents using library facilities for schoolwork, job applications, online services and other digital needs.
SmartCape provides free access to computers and the internet, while City libraries also offer digital literacy training.
‘The SmartCape service was introduced in our libraries in July 2002 when we placed five computers at libraries. Since then and over the past 24 years, this programme has made a massive contribution to improving residents’ access to opportunities. We now have 560 350 registered users who use our computers to send emails, compile CVs, apply for jobs, do research for school assignments, and so forth. Registered users get 45 minutes free internet every day, and if you access the service with WiFi you get 500MB free data every month. We are extremely proud of how this programme has evolved over two decades and the exceptional uptake from our local communities,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Alderman Theresa Uys.
‘For many residents, our public libraries are the gateway to opportunities. They are where learners complete schoolwork, jobseekers apply for work, entrepreneurs build businesses and residents can access important services. By upgrading 590 SmartCape computers at 50 libraries, we are making that access faster and more reliable to meet the growing demand for digital services. This investment improves overall performance, reliability, security and enables patrons to access digital services more efficiently so our library users can access the tools they need to learn, work and connect,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
SmartCape usage has surged across libraries since the hardware roll-out started, and libraries recording more than 1 000 monthly sessions include Kuyasa, Scottsdene and Nazeema Isaacs. Many libraries host more than 600 sessions for children under 12 on a monthly basis.
Earlier this week, Delft Library was broken into and computers from both the SmartCape area and the circulation desk were stolen. These computers were relied upon by learners, jobseekers and residents accessing essential online services.
‘When a library is targeted, it is not the City that suffers most – it is the community. Every stolen computer is one less opportunity for a learner to complete homework, a jobseeker to submit an application or a resident to access essential online services. We appeal to anyone with information to come forward so that these important community resources can be recovered,’ added Councillor Higham.
The City remains committed to investing in modern, accessible library services that help bridge the digital divide and create opportunities for residents across Cape Town.
Anyone with information about the Delft Library burglary must please report it to SAPS or call the City’s tip-off line: 0800 110077.
