“Room to Read opens 48 school libraries in Kapilvastu on National Library Day.”

 KATHMANDU, AUGUST 31: Marking the 18th National Library Day, Room to Read Nepal has inaugurated 48 new school libraries across three rural municipalities in Kapilvastu District. Of these, 33 libraries are already in use, while 15 will become fully functional once additional seating is arranged.


The initiative aligns with this year’s national theme, “Our Library: Our Future,” set by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, highlighting the importance of libraries in improving education and literacy.


At the event, Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, said that libraries should be redefined as community learning centers rather than just places to store books. Education Secretary Choodamani Paudel added that reading habits are essential for expanding knowledge and urged everyone to dedicate time to reading.


The new libraries are designed to be child-friendly and to provide access to a wide variety of books and resources, benefiting thousands of students, especially from low-income families. Prakash Gaire, Ward Chairperson of Kapilvastu Municipality-3, said, “We are excited to have quality reading materials and a child-friendly space for students to enjoy and deepen their love for books.”


Pushkar Lal Shrestha, Country Director of Room to Read Nepal, emphasized that libraries are foundations for curiosity, creativity, and opportunity. He said the organization works with governments, schools, and communities to ensure every child has the chance to learn and thrive.


Since starting its work in Nepal in 2000, Room to Read has established 4,966 school libraries across 31 districts, distributed over 10.4 million reading materials, and created learning environments that encourage literacy and personal growth. Globally, the organization has reached over 50 million children across 28 countries, driven by its belief that “World Change Starts with Educated Children®.”

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