This is disturbing. I just sat down to start drafting the petition/letter I want to send out about establishing a public library in Islamabad. In the interests of being factually accurate, I looked up which public libraries are operational in Islamabad right now; unsurprisingly enough, there are just 2, both fairly low-key affairs hidden away in G-6 and G-8. And the link above describes the shenanigans going on at the G-6 library (the ‘Model Children Library’ — what ignorant fool comes up with these names?).
On a slightly more positive note, the G-8 library is a new development: an opening up of the Central Secretariat Library to the public. Cynical as I am, I must applaud this because however small, it’s a step in the right direction.
Also on the plus side, I’ve got some great research for the letter:
- A full list of Pakistani libraries
- The campaign for Wisconsin libraries lists a lot of excellent information, such as that people who visit libraries tend to live longer than people who don’t!
- Lots of quotes about libraries and the value of education in general
The plan, BTW, is to suggest that the government give us a plot in a somewhat central location (I think F-9 park, in its new capacity as center of social activity in Islamabad, would be ideal) that we can construct a building on in a non-profit version of the build-operate-lease (BOL) model. We would commit to raising the funds for construction, and provide a plan that lays out how the facility would be run.
I’m relishing the opportunity to send a letter to the British Council (eventually) suggesting they redirect the funds they were putting into their own library (before they shut it down) to us. If that day comes to pass, I for one will rejoice at having the British Council return to being an organisation working to provide useful facilities to Pakistanis, rather than pamphlets for expensive examinations and university degrees.
I note your comments about the British Council. The organisation makes much of its role of providing opportunities, and the fact that it is a charity, but your description of it as a recruiter for expensive examinations and university degrees (for which they charge the universities very large sums of money) points up what it has now become. In a blog not long ago I reported on how they were undermining Pakistani local enterprise to line their own pockets. http://dblackie.blogs.com/the_language_business/2006/11/wiping_out_agen.html
Good luck with your libary campaign.
Sorry I never got around to doing this. :)
Who’s the letter going to be addressed to?