The Ministry of Culture launched a project to rehabilitate public libraries in Lebanon, in partnership with UNESCO and with the support of the Norwegian Embassy in Lebanon, as well as TheChris “loops” Seikali Foundation and MCN Build Foundation.
The project was announced during a ceremony held at the National Library in Sanayeh, in the presence of Minister of Culture Ghassan Salameh, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Beirut Mr. Paolo Fontani, the Norwegian Ambassador Ms. Hilde Haraldstad, Dr. George Chdaraoui, representing MCN Build and LOOPS foundations, as well as representatives of UNESCO and donor entities, in addition to public library directors and a number of cultural and educational stakeholders in Lebanon.
The project aims to strengthen the role of public libraries and reading and cultural animation centers as hubs for knowledge, learning, and community gathering, through the rehabilitation of infrastructure, equipment, and services, as well as capacity-building for staff. This will enable them to better respond to the needs of local communities and provide a more suitable environment for reading, learning, and cultural activities.
In his speech during the ceremony, Minister Salameh emphasized the importance of public libraries as one of the key pillars of cultural life, affirming that the project is part of the Ministry of Culture’s efforts to support public cultural institutions and enhance access to knowledge and culture across different regions of Lebanon.
He added: “The ongoing war has caused significant damage to several public libraries, some of which have been completely destroyed. Our project does not exclude these libraries; they will inevitably benefit from it and receive the necessary support to restore their cultural and educational role in the third phase of implementation, as soon as circumstances allow.”
For his part, Paolo Fontani, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Beirut, stressed that public libraries in Lebanon, in light of rapid technological transformations and the increasing spread of misinformation and hate speech, remain safe and inclusive spaces for learning and dialogue. He added: “Libraries do not block the internet; they protect minds by empowering people, especially youth, to think critically, navigate digital spaces safely, and confront hate with understanding rather than fear. As one of the most democratic institutions in our societies, libraries ensure access to knowledge for all, regardless of age, gender, background, or circumstances, and they play a fundamental role in building informed, inclusive, and resilient societies.”
The Norwegian Ambassador, Ms. Hilde Haraldstad, also renewed Norway’s commitment to supporting public libraries and strengthening their role in partnership with national institutions, UNESCO, and local communities. She said: “Libraries are more than buildings; they are spaces that allow children and communities to learn, connect, and imagine a better future, even in the most difficult times. Norway remains committed to supporting efforts that preserve and strengthen these spaces across Lebanon.”
In his remarks, Dr. George Chdaraoui affirmed the commitment of MCN Build Foundation and The Chris “loops” Seikali Foundation to supporting the rehabilitation and development of public libraries in Lebanon. He said: “Together, we are not only committed to rebuilding these libraries, but also to equipping them with the latest technologies needed by Lebanese youth to face future challenges. These libraries will include high-speed internet, computers, robotics programs, 3D printers, advanced digital learning tools, and modern technologies that many Lebanese youth do not currently have access to.”
Following the launch ceremony, a discussion session was held to review the current state of libraries, their needs, and the challenges they face, as well as to explore ways to enhance services and strengthen their role as active community cultural centers. The session provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and ideas on the ideal model for public libraries in Lebanon, in line with technological and cultural developments, and to reinforce their ability to serve all segments of society.
The first phase of the project is expected to cover 15 public libraries out of 53 distributed across Lebanon’s governorates. Work will then continue in the remaining libraries, with interventions for each library defined based on a needs assessment and priorities, ensuring a sustainable long-term impact.
This project comes within the framework of the commitment of the Ministry of Culture, UNESCO, Norway, and Lebanese diaspora partners to strengthening cultural infrastructure in Lebanon, consolidating the role of public libraries as open and safe spaces for dialogue, learning, and creativity, and enhancing equitable and inclusive access to knowledge across all regions.
READ MORE: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/ministry-culture-partnership-unesco-launches-project-rehabilitate-public-libraries-lebanon
