Gqeberha’s Historic Main Library: Cruise Tourism Breaks Decades-Long Silence, Sparking Revival Of A Victorian Gothic Gem

Published on December 8, 2025

The appearance of Gqeberha’s central district today, when compared to its structure during the early 1900s, is recognized as being almost completely transformed. Over time, numerous historic buildings have been demolished to facilitate the construction of contemporary office structures, while many remaining landmarks have suffered decay due to neglect and the inevitable passage of time. However, a remarkable, nearly pristine example of early Victorian Gothic architecture continues to stand majestically upon the old town square. This structure serves as a tangible affirmation of the enduring sentiment that objects of such quality are no longer manufactured. Known simply as the Main Library, dedicated efforts are currently being undertaken to restore this magnificent historical edifice to its former splendour, with the ultimate objective of reopening it to the residents of Gqeberha and international visitors alike.

A Legacy Unveiled: The Library’s Enduring History

Although the building standing today was formally inaugurated in July 1902, the institution’s history extends back several more decades and spans multiple locations. The library’s origins are traced to 1844, when it was established as the Port Elizabeth News Society. This society initially operated from a leased room situated above a shop on Jetty Street, providing its members with newspapers and magazines imported from England before a small collection of books was gradually assembled.

In the subsequent year of 1845, the society secured rental space within the Commercial Hall. Slowly but surely, the shares in this building were acquired, culminating in full ownership. Following this period, the library was relocated to an alternative premises, with the Commercial Hall subsequently being leased to the local government for use as a courthouse.

An Architectural Masterpiece in Preservation

The aesthetic and structural integrity of the Main Library exemplify high Victorian Gothic architecture. Upon entry, visitors are immediately met by a circular desk positioned centrally within the main floor area. This design, which functions as a form of architectural panopticon, was conceived to allow librarians an unrestricted view of visitors in every corner of the ground floor and the two tiers of balconies that rise above it. High above this central operational desk, a magnificent stained glass dome is situated. This fixture serves both as an exquisitely decorative element and as a skylight, permitting natural illumination to flood the vast, open space below.

Priceless Collections and the Need for Conservation

Throughout the decades of its operation, the library has been fortunate to be cared for by numerous dedicated librarians, who have been instrumental in the preservation of both the building and the historical collections it houses. The precise number of volumes held by the Main Library remains uncertain, but the collection is considered truly priceless, spanning centuries of accumulated knowledge. Carol Victor, the librarian responsible for the Special Collections section, has noted the difficulty of singling out any specific item as being the most significant due to the sheer diversity and depth of the holdings.

The library’s shelves contain incredible old family Bibles, extensive archives of newspapers focusing on English and African history, and a particularly rare and valuable collection of books, reports, and artefacts pertaining to the maritime industry, some of which date back to the 1800s. It is recognized that each subject area carries its own distinct significance, and therefore, every collection is deemed invaluable to the historical record.

The Path to Rejuvenation and Public Access

The necessity of ensuring public safety prompted the closure of the library to the general public approximately twelve years ago, citing serious health and safety concerns. A comprehensive, multi-phase refurbishment project was initiated shortly thereafter. The proposals for this extensive work included vital repairs to the roof structure, the installation of updated fire safety equipment, significant improvements to the lighting systems, and the ambitious construction of an entirely new wing.

Maritime Interest Sparks a Cultural Revival

The catalyst for engaging international visitors was rooted in the strategic decision to capitalize on the historical significance of Algoa Bay as a major hub for maritime trade. This theme was found to perfectly align with the experience of tourists arriving in Nelson Mandela Bay by ship. Graham Taylor, who serves as the MLF chairperson and also chairs the local Historic Society, explained that the MLF was created primarily as a means to refocus attention on what is considered one of Gqeberha’s most vital historic assets.

It is widely held that the Main Library is, in essence, the historic heart of Gqeberha, functioning both as a physical landmark and as an indispensable resource for information concerning the city’s past. The preservation of this site and its accessibility to the public are, therefore, viewed as absolutely crucial objectives. Following the introduction of the international tours, word rapidly disseminated throughout the local community. The result was a notable increase in local residents tagging along with the visiting international groups. This unexpected surge of domestic curiosity is indicative of a powerful, renewed interest in the Main Library, allowing the volunteers the welcome opportunity to proudly display this important historic site to its own citizens.