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16 July 2008

The Minister of Arts and Culture, Dr Z Pallo Jordan will unveil the new home for the National Library of South Africa on 1 August 2008, in Pretoria.

R300 million was spent on the new building which will seat 1 300 users at any one time. Significantly, the 33 000 m² is 10 times more than the existing library.

Also, its 14 700 m² of storage space will preserve the quality of the reading material, including newspapers dating back to the late 1800s.

In fact, the climate control of 18 degrees C and 50% humidity within the storage space will prevent deterioration of books.

This building was designed as a joint venture between Jeremie Malan Architects, Impendulo Architects and Gandhi Maseko Architects and implemented by the Department of Public Works.

Journalists are invited to attend.

Date: 1 August 2008
Time: 10h00
Venue: National Library of South Africa, 228 Proes Street, Pretoria

RSVP:
Ms Mpho Matjele
Tel: 012 441 3489
Cell: 082 902 7238

Media enquiries:
Mack Lewele
Tel: 012 441 3083
Cell: 082 450 5076

Sandile Memela
Cell: 082 800 3750

Issued by: Department of Arts and Culture
16 July 2008