Capri Community
SUNNYDALE, WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA
The Little Capri Bookshelf
About
The Little Capri Bookshelf has been standing on Capri Drive since August 2021, sharing stories from one reader to another.
The idea started a few months earlier, after seeing similar little public bookshelves in Glencairn and along Kommetjie Road. Could we have one in Capri too?
Vivian offered a spot on her lovely painted wall at 22 Capri Drive, and local resident Dave Odendal stepped in to build and install the little weatherproof bookcase.
And so, in true Capri fashion, an idea became a community project.
What You’ll Find
Absolutely anyone is welcome to use the bookshelf.
- Take a book that catches your eye
- Leave a book for somebody else
- Return the book when you’ve finished it, or keep it and add another one another time
- Children’s books are very welcome too
There is no need to take and leave a book at the exact same time. The idea is just to keep books moving and being enjoyed.
Still Going Strong
More than five years later, the Little Capri Bookshelf is still well used.
Books come and go constantly, with local residents regularly adding new ones. A local resident’s book club has also supplied many books over the years, helping to keep the shelves full of good reads.
The bookshelf has weathered a few Cape storms along the way and has needed the occasional repair, but whenever something needs fixing, someone always seems to step forward to help.
Community members also keep an eye on it, straighten the books and tidy things up when needed.
It is one of those very simple projects that doesn’t need much organising or managing. It works because people use it, enjoy it and look after it.
A Little Bit of Capri
Perhaps that’s the nicest thing about the Little Capri Bookshelf.
It began with an idea, one person offered a place for it, another built it, others donated books, and the community simply took it from there.
Give a book. Take a book. Read it. Share it.
And may the stories keep travelling around Capri for many years to come.
Location Outside 22 Capri Drive, Capri
Questions or enquiries info@capriwatch.co.za