The City of Cape Town’s library and information services department’s eighth annual reading competition will ultimately include more than 70 libraries and hundreds of pupils.
Some of the libraries have concluded their preliminary rounds, while others are set to complete them by the end of May.
Schools held elimination rounds where all of the Grade 7 pupils competed to qualify for the district reading competitions.
Unlike in previous years, the winners of the six districts will not compete against each other. Instead, the winners of the library rounds will compete against each other in the district finals. Each district will therefore have their own finals where library winners will compete.
“One of the aims of the competition is to address the reading challenges of our communities and build relationships with the schools. We are committed to developing reading skills and encouraging a reading culture in our communities,” said Mayco member for community services and special projects Belinda Walker.
“Reading also helps to develop the mind and imagination and we cannot emphasise its importance enough.
“Reading helps children to expand their vocabulary, broaden their horizons and improve language and listening skills. It also helps learners become better communicators whether at school or at home.”
District finals will take place from the end of May until July.