I-Buku public library opens

A number of Bali-based artists, journalists and committed individuals jointly lent a hand to establish a public library, to be known as Taman Baca I-Buku, to provide children, students and the public access to a large range of books.

Officially launched on Monday, Feb. 14, by Ibu Mas Beratha, Taman Baca I-Buku is located within Taman Budaya Arts Center on Jl. Nusa Indah, Denpasar.

A.A. Mas Ruscita Dewi, one of the initiators, said that the newly launched library was part of a continuing campaign aimed at raising levels of interest in reading among children, teenagers and adults in Bali.

Visitors will be able to read and borrow books free of charge. They will have to pay only a small amount in membership fees.

To attract people to the library, a number of events including story-telling, reading contests, drawing and drama contests, book reviews, discussion and other activities will be held regularly.

"The book collection is still limited but we are now working hard to raise funds and donations to add to it," said Ruscita, chief editor of children's tabloid Lintang.

Only a few public libraries are open in Denpasar and other towns, housing mainly old and dusty book collections.

"It is hoped that this new library will provide a wide opportunity for children in the city to read more books instead of only watching television and playing video games, which are now mushrooming in every corner of Denpasar," said Ibu Mas Beratha, an educator and the wife of Bali Governor I Dewa Made Beratha.

Readers, companies and individuals are encouraged to participate in the reading interest campaign. Those eager to donate used or new books will be especially appreciated.

For further information, please contact Mas Ruscita Dewi at Lintang, tel. (0361) 225764, fax: (0361) 227418, email:ibuku_tb@yahoo.com; or Rita Widiadana at The Jakarta Post Bali Representative Office on Jl. Ratna No. 2, tel. (0361) 265436, fax: (0361) 223698, email:jpbali@indosat.net.id. -- JP