Bulawayo Public Library
The city of Bulawayo’s rich history and dedication to education are represented by the Bulawayo Public Library.
Bulawayo Public Library: A Cornerstone of Knowledge
Established in 1896, it was a cornerstone for European settlers seeking information, recreation, education, and cultural enrichment. A twelve-member committee was tasked with its management and fundraising.
A Historical Gem
Construction of the library’s current building began in 1897, with the foundation stone laid by Lord Milner during his visit for the railway opening. It officially opened its doors to the public in 1902. Interestingly, the building initially housed both the library and the Rhodesia Museum.
Over the decades, the library has remained a beloved institution, serving the people of the city of Bulawayo and the wider southern region. Its enduring popularity is a result of the dedication of countless committees, librarians, and staff.
A Museum In The Library
The Rhodesia Museum, the predecessor to the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, was initially housed within the same building as the Bulawayo Public Library. It was founded in 1901 by the Rhodesia Scientific Association and the Rhodesia Chamber of Mines.
In 1964, the museum moved to a new building and was renamed the National Museum of Rhodesia. It was designed by architect James Whalley and boasted the second-largest mounted elephant in the world.
A Wealth of Resources
The Bulawayo Public Library offers a vast collection of materials catering to diverse interests. While specific details about the current collection might vary, traditionally, public libraries house a broad range of resources, including:
Books: Fiction, non-fiction, academic texts, children’s books, and reference materials.
Periodicals: Newspapers, magazines, and journals.
Audiovisual materials: DVDs, CDs, and sometimes digital formats.
It’s important to note that while public libraries often have reference sections, they primarily function as lending libraries. Patrons can borrow materials for a specified period.
A Pillar of the Community
The Bulawayo Public Library is more than just a repository of books; it’s a community hub. It has played a critical role in education, research, and leisure for generations.
General Information
This information applies to all Council libraries.
Membership
All legitimate residents of the relevant high-density suburbs are welcome to use the council libraries, subject to the following requirements:
- To demonstrate that they are a resident of the suburbs the library serves, an applicant for membership must present a proof of paid rent card.
- Adults are required to pay a nominal fee which is reviewed from time to time, currently adults pay US$10 p.a., and children US$5p.a. together with a parent’s guarantee.
Reading Materials
Children’s Books
These are kept in the Children’s libraries and are intended for the 6-12 year group. Picture and story books with simple text are offered to the very young and more advanced ones to the older ones.
Adult Books
These are grouped into the following sections:
- Non-Fiction i.e. books that are accurate and educational about a variety of topics across all academic areas.
- Fiction i.e. novels adventure, crime, westerns, romance.
- Reserved Books. These are non-fiction books reserved for readers engaged in internal and external studies ranging from ZJC, ‘O’ Level, ‘A’ Level to post graduate courses.
- Reference Books. These comprise dictionaries, encyclopedias for example, which are not for lending and are to be used on the library premises only.
African Literature
This is one area in which efforts are made to build up a good collection. Currently, the libraries carry books that are written in Ndebele, Shona, and Zulu.
Periodicals
Copies are available for reading in the reading room but cannot be taken away.
HIV/AIDS Information Corner
This is a special collection of accurate and up-to-date HIV/AIDS material for the benefit of communities served.
How to Borrow Books
Any book may be selected from the lending sections by a registered member. Two weeks can be used to check out two books. To have a date of return stamped on books, they must be brought to the library counter.
The books must be returned by this date at the latest; if needed again, the loan may be extended as long as no other members request the volumes. Readers who keep the books after the expiration date receive overdue notices.
Book Processing
All books for libraries are processed at Mzilikazi Memorial Library and then distributed to branch libraries. Libraries maintain stock cards that match the Mzilikazi Library’s central catalogue.
How to Find Books
Fiction books are arranged alphabetically according to authors’ surnames. Non-fiction books are arranged numerically according to class numbers indicated on book spines. Ask the librarian for assistance.
Rules
- It is suggested that readers use the libraries in their neighborhoods.
- We ask that readers keep silent.
- In libraries, smoking and eating are prohibited.
- Bags and cases are not allowed in the libraries.
- A staff member will check every book that is taken out.
- Books that are misplaced or broken must be replaced at full cost.
- Members should use the library that serves their neighborhood and notify us of any changes to their address.
Where is the Bulawayo Public Library?
Location
The Bulawayo Public Library is centrally located at the corner of 8th Avenue and Fort Street, making it accessible to residents and visitors alike.
Contact the Bulawayo Public Library
Phone: +263-29-226 0966 / 226 0965
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bulawayopubliclibray/
LinkedIn: https://zw.linkedin.com/company/bulawayo-public-library
Opening Hours
Monday-Friday: 9 am–5:30 pm
Saturday: 9 am–12:30 pm
Sunday: Closed
