SHAH ALAM: IF you are looking to develop your children’s reading and social interaction skills, head for the Anggerik Vanilla public library at Shah Alam City Council’s (MBSA) branch office in Section 31, Kota Kemuning here.
The library, opened on April 1, is the first facility provided by MBSA to nurture interest in reading among children and students.
Plenty of activities and programmes have been specially devised for the children to enjoy learning. Among the programmes are interactive labs, creative crafts, storytelling and motivation programmes.
During the coming school holidays, there will be a tree-and-fruit planting session and a mini petting zoo.
The library is equipped with computers, Wi-Fi connectivity (Internet access will be under the supervision of the librarian), a prayer room, and a gazebo for visitors who wish to relax at the park. There are more than 1,000 books in the library.
Most of them are donated by wellwishers, non-profit organisations and corporate sectors.
Mayor Datuk Mohd Jaafar Mohd Atan said two more public libraries will be built next year — one in Kampung Lombong in Jalan Kebun and another in Paya Jaras in Sungai Buloh.
Jaafar said these libraries would serve those living in rural areas.
“To encourage people to read, we need to have proper facilities. In view of this, we decided to open up a library for the public.
“We started construction work in April last year and the total cost came up to RM200,000.
“Since the opening, more than 300 people have registered as members. We encourage more people to become members as registration is free until the end of the year.
“The public are welcome to donate books, audio-visual materials and other items for the children,” he said during the inauguration of the Anggerik Vanilla public library.
Membership is RM15 per adult and RM5 to renew it yearly.
For children aged 7 to 12, the fee is RM5, and RM5 for yearly renewal. Senior citizens and people with disabilities enjoy free admission.
Opening hours are from 8.30am to 5pm (Tuesday to Friday) and from 10.30am to 3pm on alternate Saturdays. It is closed on Monday.
For details, call 03-5120 1367.