Lehae Library

Running a functional public library in Johannesburg means working around load shedding schedules, managing aging infrastructure, and keeping collections relevant despite budget constraints. Librarians here juggle extended internet outages that affect digital catalogue systems, water supply interruptions that impact facility maintenance, and the reality of serving communities where basic services remain patchy. The practical work involves maintaining physical book stocks in a city where theft and environmental damage pose constant challenges, training staff to troubleshoot systems when power fails, and adapting programming to work whether or not electricity is available. It's less about ideal conditions and more about solving real problems with what's on hand.