Mobile Libraries Spread the Love of Books
Modern libraries and large bookstores with thousands of titles have long been familiar reading spaces for urban residents. However, for many students, especially those in remote and underserved communities, access to a wide range of books remains limited. Recognizing this need, multimedia mobile libraries do more than bring books directly to students; they also serve as bridges of knowledge, inspiring a love of reading and helping children develop lasting reading habits.
Nearly 900 students at Le Loi Elementary School in Hoai Duc Commune, Lam Dong Province, sat in large circles around baskets filled with books, freely choosing their favorite stories and comics. The brand-new, colorful books opened up a shimmering new world before the eyes of the young children.
Minh Ngoc, a student, said: “I chose a storybook that I like. I’m so happy. I knew the mobile library truck would come to our school today, but I didn’t expect there to be so many books.”
Meanwhile, at Hoang Hoa Tham Primary School in Duc Linh Commune, more than 500 students eagerly welcomed the mobile library. Khanh Huyen, a student, said: “I feel very happy and excited when the library truck comes to my school. There are many new storybooks that I’ve heard about but have never seen before. I hope the library truck will visit our school many more times.”
When the mobile library truck arrived, the atmosphere at each school grew livelier than ever. Students eagerly lined up, their eyes filled with curiosity and anticipation. The book-filled vehicle seemed to open up a vast new world where children could explore fascinating stories, useful knowledge, and meaningful lessons. Behind those joyful moments were the tireless efforts of the people running the program.
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Do Thi Hai, a staff member of the Reader Services Department at the Provincial Library, said: “Each destination is a journey, regardless of distance. We have to contact each school, assess its needs, and coordinate all preparations before each visit. Above all, the joy in the children’s eyes when they find happiness in books is what motivates us to fulfill our mission.”
The interaction between library staff and students also created a warm and friendly atmosphere. Staff members guided the children in choosing suitable books and shared advice on reading habits, book care, and the joy of discovering knowledge through every page. Their dedication has helped sow the seeds of a lasting love of books in young hearts.
According to Nguyen Quy Duc, Deputy Director of the Provincial Library, the mobile library truck has been brought to schools in the eastern region of Lam Dong for nearly 10 years. After the provincial merger, the program continues to be implemented across all three regions of the province. "As each destination has its own characteristics, the Provincial Library carefully selects books and organizes suitable activities, incorporating lively storytelling sessions to spark students’ interest. Specifically, we bring along 2,000 book titles, with priority given to children’s stories, life skills, popular science, history, and books about President Ho Chi Minh...” he said.
The mobile library initiative is more than a public service program; it is an effective model for bringing knowledge closer to the community. At a time when digital devices are taking up more of people’s time, nurturing a reading culture has become an important mission. Through these journeys, books are brought closer to students, helping spread a lasting love of reading across the community.