SALB and Khunwana Library break access barriers for the blind

PABALLo Monageng is a 31-year-old blind person from Khunwana village. through the marketing of library services, in association with the South African Library for the Blind (SALB), he was identified as someone who could benefit from the services available.

Paballo Monageng - Khunwana Public Library user, North West Province

Monageng became blind in 2017, due to an accident. he then started accessing library services at his local library in Khunwana, where he was assisted by Lesley Moriana, Khunwana community librarian, and Lebogang oliphant, SALB project co-ordinator. through this initiative, Monageng managed to get training in Braille Level 1 (Introduction in Braille), which will enable him to read and write in Braille. he also has access to library services in his community through the mini–library section in Khunwana Community Library.

The next training he will receive will be Braille Level 2. this will be followed by computer training, which will open doors for Monageng to pursue his dream of becoming a professional teacher.

Monageng believes that access to libraries and mini-library services will enable blind and visually impaired people to prosper towards building a sustainable future for all.

He also thanked the Khunwana Community Library and SALB for breaking the barriers that prevent blind, visually impaired and printdisabled readers from accessing information; and for developing the lives of community members through hard work, perseverance, determination and dedication.