(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) Maktabati, Oman's first mobile library, facilitated by Dar al Atta'a under its Let's Read Campaign, was launched at the lawns of InterContinental Muscat, bringing the world of books to children's doorsteps across the country.
The library was inaugurated by H E Humood bin Khalfan al Harthy, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Education. Also present were Maryam al Zadjali, chairperson of Dar al Atta'a, and Hussain Jawad Abdul Rasool, its honorary president.
The project by the charity organisation has the support of the Diwan of Royal Court's Public Knowledge Library apart from individual organisations.
The library will travel to cities and villages five days a week, and will be stationed at malls and public places such as parks. Children can take library membership by paying 500bz while books can be borrowed after paying 100bz each.
Jane Jaffer, who heads the Let's Read Campaign, said, ''Reading connects us with the world. It helps us see the world through books. Children will get closer to their favourite characters, and the books will help them understand the cultures of other communities. We have tried to keep all kinds of books and provide children with a variety.''
Maktabati has a collection of books by prominent children's writers, short stories, comics and fairy tales. It allows children to put up requests for the kind of books they prefer. A librarian on board will help children in choosing from the collection.
''We have books by Enid Blyton, on Bob the Builder, short stories and fairy tales by noted writers. We need more books and are trying to add to our bank. People wanting to add to our book bank are welcome,'' added Jane.
Shatha Abbas, Dar al Atta'a board member, said, ''We are excited. Children certainly want to join the project. They are happy to see a whole world of books. We are sharing our experience and the response we have received. I hope the villages also get to enjoy the experience.''
Dar al Atta'a launched the Let's Read campaign in 2007 to rekindle children's interest in reading. The association is further planning a Big Book Day, Writing Day and a story-telling session
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