Oman Wires It's all about Oman
The Children’s Public Library in Qurm is a testament to this. Through its programmes, this library not just offers equal access to sources, but also assists create a sense of neighborhood amongst the youngsters. It also inculcates duty and accountability in them. In an interview with Muscat Daily, Buthaina bint Ahmed bin Abdulrasoul Macki, head of the Workshops and Children Programmes at the library, mentioned, the Children’s Public Library is a non-profit organisation which is supported by each organisations and people.
“Launched on November 13, 2017, the library targets children from three to 17 years, offering them various sources of information and programmes by encouraging them to read in addition to implanting values and moralities of Omani society. The library also seeks to establish a cultural environment that embraces thoughts and functions as a cultural source for the future generations,” she mentioned.
Buthaina mentioned that the library, in addition to its standard duties, also gives events, programmes and workshops to fulfil children’s want for understanding and entertainment. Besides, the library offers activities that trigger children’s enthusiasm to study and obtain life abilities and strengthen self-self-confidence.
“Some of the activities offered include Alhakawti (The Story Teller), handwriting improvement, skill enhancement, personality building, teamwork, trade awareness and money saving, flower arrangement, découpage and traditional handicrafts. We also conduct programmes focusing on environmental awareness,” she mentioned.
Buthaina explains how the library also believes in assisting parents, childcare providers and these involved in the field of children’s literature.
“We offer programmes focusing on how to write stories for children. There are parenting courses where focus is on using stories as a tool to teach kids. Another programme is called ‘My Child is Reading’ which is a step-by-step coaching technique.”
Asked if such workshops are open to public, Buthaina mentioned, “Yes, they are. Everyone can participate in these workshops, which are announced through our social media pages on Instagram and Twitter and in the near future on the libraries’ website pages.”
She mentioned that the function played by such programmes represent a opportunity to learn the joy of gaining understanding.
“In general, these workshops enhance children’s skills related to aspects of culture, knowledge and leadership. In addition, they improve their reading and writing skills. The library also seeks to encourage talents and capacities of children via craftwork and paintings. Such activities are linked to international Omani events and occasions such as ‘The Jewel of Muscat Voyage’ which also enhances their sense of social responsibility,” she mentioned.
On how several beneficiaries have enrolled in such activities so far, Buthaina mentioned, “As many as 1,467 beneficiaries have enrolled so far in 49 workshops or programmes in the past eight months. The library also provides beneficiaries with referential services. There are also drawing and colouring corners, educational games corner and a computer lab. “The Internet services are provided for educational purposes and the library is open to special tours for educational institutions.”
On the institutions supporting the library, Buthaina mentioned there is a powerful assistance from BP Oman. “The library welcomes all forms of support be it financial or contributions in operating and improving the library to keep pace with the latest developments in all fields of knowledge. BP Oman has supported the library through its social investment programme.”
Information Source: Muscat Daily
