Books on Wheels

Is it possible for books to travel? Three years ago, a school bus converted into a mobile library started providing opportunities for the IDP settlements of Georgia to host a number of community activities. The bookbus is not only a library, but an inspirational educational center on wheels.

When readers cannot go to libraries, libraries acquire wheels and go to readers. A school bus has been modified to become a mobile library, traveling to the Tserovani, Tsilkani, Prezeti, and Galavani - settlements that host a large number of internally displaced people (IDP) from South Ossetia following the 2008 conflict.

The program, implemented by the US embassy in 2013, aims to reach out to the IDP communities, providing access to English language books, otherwise unavailable, and to broaden the kids’ educational horizons. The bookmobile is not only a library, but rather an educational center on wheels, also providing a variety of courses and activities.

Most books are in the English language, focusing on American topics - from American literature, to governance systems, history and culture. The library on wheels provides free internet, audio and video material and it organizes film screenings and discussions on different topics. It also runs clubs like video and photography courses.

The bookbus often holds different events, joins several international campaigns and celebrates international days, including the annual celebration of International Day of Peace. This year, volunteer painters and IDP children painted the bridge to the settlement together.

This article was originally published on Chai Khana. Winner of the 2015 EU Prize for Journalism for most informative online media, and the International ADAMI Prize for Cultural Diversity in Eastern Europe, is a multi-media platform seeking to revitalize the development of independent media in the South Caucasus for a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Thoma Sukhashvili, Chai-Khana