Africana Library
About
📚 Welcome to the Africana Library
📍 What is the Africana Library?
The Africana Research Library is one of the finest research libraries in Southern Africa.
It evolved from the Kimberley Public Library, which was originally opened on 23 July 1887.
In 1984, it was officially converted into the Africana Research Library.
🏛️ What does the library specialize in?
The library holds a vast collection of books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other documents related to:
• Kimberley
• The Diamond Fields
• Northern Cape archaeology and geology
• The history of South Africa and the continent at large
It is especially strong in:
• Records on Kimberley’s development
• The origin of diamond mining
• The South African War (1899–1902)
• Genealogical research
🖼️ Are there photographs available?
Yes!
The library maintains a large collection of historical photographs, and prints are available for sale.
📕 Are publications available for purchase?
Yes, select publications are available for sale, covering various historical and regional topics.
🕰️ What is the Special Collection?
The Special Collection includes materials primarily of European origin, including:
• Rare and early printed books (some dating back to 1475)
🏛️ What is the Africana Library Trust?
The Africana Library Trust was established in 2005 and is:
• The legal custodian of all collections in the Africana Library
• Responsible for administration, preservation, and fundraising to support the library’s mission
📬 How do I contact the Africana Library?
📍 Address:
63-65 Du Toitspan Road, Kimberley, South Africa
📞 Telephone:
+27 (0)53 830 6247
📧 Email: