IT seems like with the busy routine of daily life, children and mothers are living in different worlds. They do not share activities together. Children’s basic activity has become video games. No space is given for reading.
In an attempt to change the current reality, a group of nine young mothers have decided to start the project entitled “My Library”. Sondos Zidan, Dania Al-Saadi, Durr Fayez, Yamm Fayez, Sherry Naseef, Dima Halabi, Dalia Asaad, Wed Harthi and Lilian Naseef said this library could be a second home for the registered families, pointing out that children can come with their mothers or even elder sisters to spend two to three hours reading in the library.
In an effort to strengthen the relationship between mothers and their children, no nannies are allowed to accompany the kids.
“My Library” targets children up to 18 years of age. Boys are allowed until the age of eleven, but the moms are planning a boys-only day for the older kids.
Some mothers bring their newborn babies to read for them. Studies have suggested that children who are read to score better in schools when they get older, according to the group.
The project started in September 2004 in one of the mother’s homes. They used to meet and invite other families with their children to encourage them to read. Last month, the project became bigger and moved to another independent location in Al-Rawda District of Jeddah.
The group brings the collection of books from different countries, such as Kuwait, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria, in addition to the local books. Books are available in Arabic, English, French and Spanish.
After families register, each child receives a bag with their names embroidered on them in order to use when they borrow books.
“We want children to feel independent and responsible for their own stuff,” said Zidan.
The library has special times for storytelling, which thrills the children and expands their imagination.
“Children get excited when they listen to me telling them stories,” said Sherry. “Even if they do not understand the language of the story, they get attracted to my voice that says much about the story.”
The library is divided into three sections. The first section has books that are suitable for children under the age of five. The second section is for children between the age of six and 12, and the third is for teens.
The library is designed in colors that reflect a childish atmosphere. Purple and orange are the basic colors in the library’s interior design.
“Purple symbolizes knowledge while orange symbolizes energy,” said Al-Saadi.
“My Library” is open from Saturday through Thursday. Storytelling times are daily at 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. The registration fee is SR500 annually per family.
Further information is available by calling: 02-263-1709.