A rapid evaluation of the Gauteng Classroom Library Project, implemented in 1 000 selected schools, uncovered a significant hurdle: overcrowded classrooms impede the successful implementation of these libraries.
Some of the key findings were:
• Over 60% of teachers reported teaching in large and very large classes.
• 28% managed classes with 50 or more learners, while 33.3% taught classes of 40 to 49 learners.
• Despite the library management charts accommodating up to 50 learners, the assumption made in the design of the library and the number of books provided in the box assumed classrooms with 40 or fewer learners.
Even with additional boxes provided for classes with over 50 learners, interviews revealed the complexities of planning, allocating time for book selection, and administering libraries in overcrowded settings – By Zenex Foundation!
