Dhaka, 23 November 2024 – In a groundbreaking move to foster a culture of reading and knowledge-sharing, Zakia Raihana Rupa, an active member of Bangladesh Public Academy (BPA), has launched a public micro-library initiative aimed at bringing books and learning resources directly to the streets of Dhaka. This initiative is designed to make literature, educational resources, and information easily accessible to people from all walks of life, especially those who may not have easy access to traditional libraries.
The first of its kind in the city, the public micro-library is a mobile, open-access space that allows anyone to borrow or donate books without any formal registration. The initiative is a unique blend of community-driven education, social empowerment, and public engagement, reflecting BPA’s core values of justice, equality, and accessibility to knowledge.
The public micro-library, set up in a colorful kiosk located in busy urban areas of Dhaka, aims to provide reading materials on subjects ranging from literature, history, social sciences, art, and poetry, to more practical resources like health guides, language learning books, and government rights information. It is designed to be open 24/7, allowing city dwellers to access resources whenever they wish.
Speaking about the project, Zakia Raihana Rupa explained, “Access to knowledge is the right of every citizen, and it should not be limited to people who have the means or time to visit libraries. My goal is to break down the barriers that prevent people, especially those from low-income areas, from gaining access to books and educational resources. This initiative is about creating a culture of sharing knowledge that benefits everyone.”
Rupa, a passionate advocate for education and community development, believes that access to books can play a critical role in shaping informed citizens and empowering marginalized communities. The micro-library will provide a safe and inclusive space where people of all ages, from students to workers, can read, learn, and engage with the world around them.
The micro-library is designed to be fully self-sustaining. It is built using eco-friendly materials and features a book swap system, where individuals can either donate a book or borrow one free of charge. There is no formal sign-up process—anyone can walk up, select a book, and take it home.
“This is about creating a shared space where books are freely available to those who may not have the means to buy them. It’s also about making sure that the knowledge economy is accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford it,” said Rupa.
The project is gaining significant attention in Dhaka, with many expressing their admiration for the innovative idea. Shahidul Islam, a local resident and frequent visitor to the library, shared his excitement: “I work as a driver, and I don’t have the time or money to go to a big library. But now I can just walk to this spot and grab a book whenever I want. It’s a great initiative, and I hope more of these pop up across the city.”
The project has already received support from a variety of individuals and organizations, including BPA members, local educators, and community leaders. The micro-library is also supported by a network of local volunteers who help maintain the library, curate books, and promote literacy among Dhaka’s residents.
Zakia Raihana Rupa is keen on expanding the initiative further, with plans to set up additional micro-library kiosks in other parts of Dhaka and across the country. She envisions a movement where the streets become vibrant spaces of learning and knowledge exchange.
“We want to build a nation of informed citizens, and for that, we need to ensure that knowledge is accessible to all,” Rupa said. “This is just the beginning. I hope that through the support of people like the members of BPA and the community, we can create a network of street libraries that empower people to learn, grow, and become agents of change in their own lives and in their communities.”
This public micro-library is more than just a place to borrow books—it is a symbol of community empowerment, a call for social equality, and a demonstration of how small initiatives can create a ripple effect of positive change. It highlights the growing need for accessible education and social inclusion in Bangladesh, particularly in urban centers where many people live in overcrowded, underserved areas with limited access to educational resources.
Bangladesh Public Academy has long advocated for creating inclusive spaces for learning and civic engagement. Zakia Raihana Rupa’s micro-library initiative is a perfect example of how BPA members are actively contributing to the realization of these goals. As BPA continues to expand its impact across the country, initiatives like this micro-library are a testament to the power of grassroots action in creating lasting social change.
A Call to Action: Support the Micro-Library Initiative
The public micro-library initiative is just the beginning, and Zakia Raihana Rupa encourages everyone to support the project, whether by donating books, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. BPA is also exploring opportunities for corporate partnerships and public funding to sustain and expand the project across Bangladesh.
To get involved or contribute to this transformative initiative, visit the BPA website or contact us directly. Your support can help bring education to those who need it most and create a culture of lifelong learning for the people of Dhaka and beyond.