Ibn Rushd Library

Thank you for your continued support, which enables the Ibn Rushd Library in Al Aqaba, West Bank Area C, to remain a vibrant hub for learning, joy, and community engagement. Your contributions make it possible for children and families to access books, cultivate their love for reading, and participate in enriching activities.

In July, the library welcomed 46 children, along with local artists and writers who contributed to the cultural atmosphere of the space. The librarian lent out 49 books, with short stories and children’s novels being the most in demand.

The library organized a variety of educational and interactive activities this month:

• In collaboration with the Tamer Institute for Community Education, the library hosted libraries from across the Tubas governorate. Children explored stories from different perspectives and planted the library’s garden. The activity fostered connections among children from different villages and introduced new forms of creative engagement.
• With the participation of the Ministry of Culture office, the children read and discussed Ahlam Bisharat’s story Miaow Miaow, followed by fun activities linked to the tale.
• The library hosted a special activity to shed light on the ongoing hunger and starvation crisis in Gaza and show solidarity with the children and families of Gaza. Children expressed their empathy and awareness through drawing, offering heartfelt messages of support.
• The children read the storybook Seeds. Later on, they tended to the library’s garden by pruning and watering the plants, combining reading with hands-on care for their environment.

Al Aqaba Village continues to face many challenges, such as the restrictions on movement and raids or fear of raids by the Israeli Army that create stress among children and families. In addition, low school attendance over the past two years has made it harder for many children to develop strong reading skills. 

In response to these challenges, the library is introducing new initiatives—starting with a dedicated support program to help children build stronger reading skills and regain their confidence. To further nurture a love of learning, the library also aims to update its space with lively decor, new shelves, and new books.

Every child deserves the opportunity to read, learn, and dream of a brighter future. Thanks to your support, we’re excited to expand these programs and continue nurturing a love of knowledge and creativity among children in Al Aqaba and the surrounding communities.

Thank you for your unwavering support, which enabled Ibn Rushd Library to provide valuable education and recreational opportunities for children. Your contributions have fostered a love for reading and creativity among our visitors at the Ibn Rushd Library in Al-Aqaba. 

Over the past six months, the library has welcomed a consistent number of visitors, including children, parents, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. A total of 492 children visited the library, showcasing a sustained interest in reading and learning. Furthermore, 560 children actively participated in various activities, highlighting strong engagement in the library's interactive and educational programs.

The library hosted a variety of interactive and educational activities, including storytelling sessions, art and craft workshops, and theatrical performances. Notable activities include: 

• Storytelling Sessions and Discussions: Several engaging storybooks including Laila Leaves the House, Who Knows Everything?, Come Play with Me, Black Dot Story, and Laban Learns to Focus on Breathing, were read to the children and discussed. This approach helped foster their engagement and comprehension skills.
• Art and Craft Activities: Making bead jewelry and Ramadan-themed crafts allowed children to express their creativity while learning valuable skills.
• Puppet Theatre: A significant highlight was the development of a miniature puppet theatre where children participated in role-playing and storytelling.
• Special Programs: A caregiver support initiative was launched in partnership with the Red Crescent and the Brotherhood Club for Women Association, consisting of six training sessions for mothers. 

The main challenge the library faced during this period was the unstable security situation caused by repeated raids on Tubas and the surrounding villages. This has created psychological stress for both the children and the staff. Despite these difficulties, the library has continued to serve as a refuge for learning, creativity, and positivity.   

The children's enthusiastic participation in theatre activities has been particularly inspiring. The ability to craft stories, play roles, and engage in discussions reflects the positive impact of the library’s program in nurturing self-expression and confidence. 

In the Ibn Rushd Library, we aim to continue providing a safe and enriching space for children and the broader community. We deeply appreciate your support which allows us to sustain and expand these valuable programs. Thank you for being a part of this journey towards education and empowerment.