18 Jun 2013

The agonizing digital divide experienced in Kasane has been improved following the installation of computers and free Internet service in the public library.

Named Sesigo project and sponsored by Bill and Melinda Gates, the initiative is under the stewardship of the African Comprehensive on HIV/AIDS Partnership (ACHAP) and covers a number of libraries in the country.

In an interview, the acting principal library officer, Mr Tshegofatso Tshwanang said ever since implementation of the development, the number of people visiting the Kasane library has doubled.

Mr Tshwanang said in a good day, especially during school vacations, over 100 people visited the library though the seating capacity was 45. He said during congestion periods, some of the customers would be left with no option but to sit outside the library and access the wireless net.

He said the library had appealed to the district committees to assist in coming up with recommendations on how the problem of limited space could be addressed and it was resolved that temporary shelters should be built through Ipelegeng.

The librarian explained that after completion, it was anticipated that clients using laptops would use the shelters to access the wireless net and in the process reduce congestion inside the library. In fact, some of the children’s activities would also be conducted in the shelters.

Mr Tshwaranag commended the residents for utilising the library saying the intention was to extend services to the Chobe West area.

He said the mobile library service was only available to the department of prisons fortnightly, although transport was sometimes a challenge.

 He however said he had realised that the residents only saw a library as a place of reading and accessing the internet but were not aware that it also taught both adults and children how to use computers.

Mr Tshwanang said the library also helped those with business ideas on how to prepare a business plan and market their business, as well as how to source financing. ENDS