For many years, the CAFDA Bookstore has been a beloved fixture in the Sea Point community. Originally located on Regent Road, opposite the Fire Station, the bookstore has long been more than just a place to purchase books. It has been a hub for book lovers, a treasure trove of literature, and a vital source of revenue for CAFDA (Cape Flats Development Association), a non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting communities through technical training, youth development, and personal growth programs.
However, the bookstore’s future is now uncertain. The original site on Regent Road is currently undergoing redevelopment, forcing CAFDA to relocate the bookstore to the corner of Main and Rocklands Roads. Despite the community’s support, the move has proven financially challenging, with the rental costs at the new location rendering the store unsustainable. As a result, the CAFDA Bookstore is in the process of closing its doors, a loss that will be deeply felt by the community.
The bookstore’s closure represents more than just the loss of a retail space; it is the loss of an institution that has served as a cultural and social cornerstone in Sea Point. The CAFDA Bookstore has offered an extraordinary selection of books donated by the public, ranging from thrillers, fictional novels, and biographies to books on travel, food and wine, history, geography, sport, religion, and education. Many of these books are no longer available in commercial bookstores, making the CAFDA Bookstore a unique resource for those seeking rare and interesting reads.
In addition to books, the store has also provided a wide selection of vinyl records and CDs, spanning genres such as folk, country, rock, jazz, and classical music. For those who appreciate the warm tones of vinyl or the crisp sound of a CD, the CAFDA Bookstore has been a rare find, offering these items at exceptionally low prices.
The Sea Point, Fresnaye & Bantry Bay Ratepayers & Residents Association (SFB) views the CAFDA Bookstore as an irreplaceable institution in our community. The bookstore’s presence has enriched the lives of many residents, and its closure would leave a significant void. However, there is still hope. CAFDA is eager to reopen the bookstore if a suitable and affordable premises can be found.
The SFB strongly encourages any landlords or businesses in the area who may be able to assist in providing new premises for the CAFDA Bookstore to reach out to the CAFDA team. While a location on Main or Regent Roads may be ideal, a side street location could also serve as a viable option, given the bookstore’s loyal patron base.
If you know of potential premises that could serve as a new home for the CAFDA Bookstore, please contact Gaynor Fisher at 083 778 8322 or Len Fisher at 065 860 0980. In addition, CAFDA would welcome any donations to help support its ongoing activities, which include technical training, youth development, and personal development programs. For more information about CAFDA and to make a donation, please visit their website at www.cafda.co.za.
In conclusion, the CAFDA Bookstore is more than just a bookstore—it is a community asset that has provided immeasurable value to Sea Point. The SFB stands behind CAFDA in its efforts to find a new home for the bookstore and urges the community to do the same. With collective support, we can help ensure that this treasured institution continues to serve our community for years to come.
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