Often called the institutions of knowledge, libraries play a pivotal role in providing books that carry ancient information on various topics and are the hub of the acceleration of education. However, Johannesburg’s central library has been shut down for over 3 years for refurbishment. There is no clear date for it to re-open so far. The closure has removed a vital facility for inner-city students and children who rely on it. Lerato Mbele speaks to Charlie Molepo, president of the Libraries and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA).