Abu Dhabi initiative to encourage reading among youth

A series of collection points have been established across the capital to collect children's books with the intention of donating and establishing libraries in nurseries, schools and centres with limited resources.

All books must be in good condition and suitable for children, and school curriculum books are not accepted. The National Library, a division of Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), has initiated this book exchange programme titled 'Your old book.is my new book,' to inculcate a reading culture among the younger generation.

Abdullah Majid Al Ali, Library Management Department Director at the National Library said: "Since January 2015, the National Library has received 1,400 children's story books and encyclopedias, and this initiative distributes them to a number of schools who are establishing their own libraries to foster a culture of knowledge exchange.

"Children have an insatiable appetite for reading, and if we are able to facilitate greater access to books through this initiative, we will ultimately encourage more children to absorb knowledge and learn." Collection boxes can be found in five locations in the capital including Khalifa Park, Mazyad Mall and Al Bahia libraries, Abu Dhabi Municipality and Nation Towers, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority headquarters building on the Corniche.

An additional collection point has been placed within Zayed next to Al Salimiah Park in the oasis city of Al Ain.
Source: Khaleej Times