Cyclone Thane – 29th & 30th December
Volontariat had a library for children, but the large room of more than 50 square metres was mostly used for typewriting courses. The dozen machines occupied all the space and did not allow any access to the books. So this month, the library was restored to its primary use, as part of the reorganization of the sponsorship programme.
All the typewriters were removed from the place, and the carpenters sanded and varnished the cupboards and shelves. Attractive mats were laid on the ground and decorated with colourful cushions made at Atelier Shanti. A part-time librarian has been appointed. She will manage the library, try to attract children to come in and familiarize them with the books. Using the library may also be fitted into the regular time table for the children who come for homework help in the evenings.
The stock includes approximately five hundred books in Tamil, most of which are quite old. A renewal of the collection would be important. Other books are English dictionaries, Encyclopedias, etc. Some new illustrated books for children were offered this year by the French Editions Actes Sud. A day after the inauguration, an Indian donor also presented the Library with about a hundred illustrated children’s books in Tamil, published in Chennai.
At the back of the library, a small play area has been set up with a rich set of "Kapla” [wooden pieces suitable for building and cut through woodwork], dolls, puzzles, etc. The four boards covering the walls will soon display the collages that children will make together, on site, with their teachers.
This work has been done thanks to volunteers, Elisabeth Beyer [from Editions Actes Sud, France] and Géraldine Ratiney., President of the Bordeaux Committee of Volontariat.
The inauguration of the library took place on Friday, March 5, 2010. (See photos).
