Village women turn one-year vision into new community library

A village near Savusavu has opened its new community library, marking more than a year of work by local women to create a dedicated space for children and families to learn and read.

The library was officially opened on World Book Day in April, bringing together families, students and community members to celebrate a project led by the village Women’s Group.

The idea began in February last year when the Women’s Group identified the need for a space where children could read after school and parents could access learning opportunities.

What began as an idea developed into regular planning meetings, shared responsibilities and fundraising and donation efforts to establish the library.

The Women’s Group led the project, including designing the layout, organising donations and preparing the room.

The new facility has been furnished with books, learning materials, mats, curtains, soft toys and other items donated by community members and partner organisations.

Baka Books donated storybooks, while Fiji National University helped furnish the room.

Peace Corps volunteer Christopher also worked with the Women’s Group, providing guidance while supporting the community-led approach to the project.

During the opening, children explored the new library and the books available to them, while families welcomed the opportunity to have a dedicated learning space within the village.

Liuliu ni Marama Maria Dulaki said the library was the 33rd village community library in Fiji and would provide children with greater access to books and learning.

“This marks the 33rd village community library in all of Fiji, and it fills my heart with joy to see the children receiving help and learning to read. They are soaking up knowledge just as eagerly as they run out to play after school. It has become a beautiful part of their weekly routine, and they are absolutely crazy about books. Seeing their excitement has brought so much happiness to their parents as well,” she said.

The library is expected to provide children with access to books and computers while creating a welcoming space for families to support learning.

For the Women’s Group, the project has also provided an opportunity to strengthen leadership, planning and project management skills while supporting literacy in the community.

The opening marked the completion of more than a year of community effort and the beginning of a new chapter in learning for children and families in the village.