THE Harare City Library has called on both its patrons and surrounding communities to actively participate in keeping the capital clean.
The call came after a recent clean-up event held at the library, located in the heart of the city.
Joe Muzurura, board chairperson of the Harare City Library, emphasised the importance of cleanliness as a symbol of good governance.
“Cleanliness is next to Godliness,” Muzurura said, underlining the significance of maintaining a tidy environment for the benefit of all.
Harare City Library has been actively involved in the national clean-up campaign for the past five years.
Ashley Stima, the library’s human resources manager, shared that the book house’s participation in these efforts aligns with the broader vision of creating a cleaner, safer and healthier environment for all citizens.
Stima elaborated: “Harare City Library, as a public institution, serves not only as a resource centre, but also as a safe space for the public and our staff.”
She continued: “We have been working alongside other institutions, such as the museum and College of Music, to organise clean-up activities.
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“Given the library’s sizeable grounds, these initiatives require teamwork, and we believe that the community plays a crucial role.”
Stima also emphasised that the responsibility to keep the area clean goes beyond the library, urging local vendors, driving schools and other nearby businesses to join the efforts.
“Litter often comes from the people purchasing from vendors or those attending driving lessons.
“It’s important that everyone takes part in this initiative to maintain the beauty of our surroundings.”
Charlene Guvheya, deputy librarian at Harare City Library, echoed similar sentiments.
She emphasised that supporting the national Clean-Up Day aligns with the library’s broader mission of promoting community engagement and awareness of its services.
“By participating in these clean-up campaigns, we not only contribute to the cleanliness of our city, but also use the opportunity to share the value of public libraries,” Guvheya noted.
She added that the library offers various community services, including free reading, venue hire, children’s programmes, and lifelong learning resources, all of which are enhanced by a clean and welcoming environment.
“These clean-up days are an opportunity to inform the community about the services we offer while supporting national development goals.”
Clean cities are more than just aesthetically pleasing; they are essential for the well-being of urban residents.
They foster a sense of pride, reduce environmental health risks, and enhance overall quality of life.
Clean environments are critical in reducing disease transmission, promoting mental health, and creating a sense of safety and order within the community.
Public institutions like the Harare City Library play an important role in leading by example, setting standards for cleanliness and encouraging local participation.
The library’s involvement in clean-up efforts not only supports national campaigns, but also helps reinforce the message that collective action is key to maintaining a healthy, sustainable urban environment.
