Shiler Library in Qamishlo provides a quiet cultural space enhancing reading and knowledge for youth.
Despite digital screens dominating daily life, Shiler Library in Qamishlo successfully attracts students and readers by offering a peaceful, dedicated space for reading, studying, and research.
NAGHAM JAJAN
Qamishlo-In an era where screens consume a massive portion of the younger generation's time, Shiler Library in the city of Qamishlo, Rojava, stands out as a cultural space that restores due respect to books. Opening its doors to the new generation, the library is no longer just a place to borrow books; rather, it has transformed into a space that brings readers and students together, encourages reading and research, and contributes to anchoring a culture of reading while raising awareness among future generations.
Reading stimulates the mind, expands human perception, and enhances capabilities for critical thinking and analysis. It is also considered one of the most important means of building an individual's cultural and intellectual personality.
Regarding this, Botan Hoshi, a member of the General Administration of the Literature Council, stated that the idea of opening Shiler Library came in response to students' need for a dedicated place for reading, studying, and research. "The primary goal of opening the library within the Literature Center is to provide a private space for reading and research. The library houses many diverse books, and it also features a section for publications. As a literature center, we strive to provide various types of books with the aim of supporting knowledge and encouraging reading."
Reading is the Cornerstone of Building a Conscious Generation
Botan Hoshi emphasized the importance of reading for students and society, stating that the library is not intended solely for students, but also welcomes intellectuals, writers, and children. She noted that the core objective is to make reading a tool that helps students develop themselves and increase their knowledge.
She added: "Reading is the cornerstone of building conscious generations. It expands the horizons of knowledge, develops critical thinking, and contributes to building an educated, progressive, and organized society. The importance of reading cannot be expressed in just a few words; therefore, we have been keen to provide Kurdish books for students alongside books in other languages."
A Safe Haven to Encourage Students to Read
Botan Hoshi explained that Shiler Library has become a quiet and safe place for students, pointing out that turnout has gradually increased since its opening. "After the opening of the library was announced, students began coming to it gradually. They find a suitable and quiet atmosphere for reading here. It also provides a safe environment and is visited by dozens of students daily. We are working to encourage them and organize their relationship with reading in order to build a better future and more conscious, organized personalities."
Botan Hoshi extended an invitation to the younger generation to engage in reading and research, stressing that knowledge is the path to building the future. "Our goal is for students to succeed in the field of reading and in building their future, because these youth are the ones who will manage the future of our society tomorrow. Therefore, they must develop their knowledge and continue researching and reading."