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Library/study center
The houses in the neighborhoods served by FANLAP are often one room, built of tarpaper or cardboard. Most of the students do not have a quiet area in which to study and do their homework.
The closest public library is located on Calle 5 de Mayo and Igancio Altamirano, approximately five miles from this neighborhood, which necessitates taking public transportation. Some students go to Internet cafes at a cost of 10 pesos or 1 USD per hour to do their homework; those who cannot afford this are not able to complete their homework and their grades suffer.
Since the dining room/multi-use building was completed in September of 2003, we wanted to have a room with computers and reference books to accommodate the needs of the students. In June of 2005, Club Rotario Balandra walled off a room in the dining room where a small library was installed by the “Red Nacional de Bibliotecas” (National Library System). Not only did they supply books, furniture and index cards but they also trained a young man who lives in the neighborhood as librarian, and who is paid by FANLAP.
Because this room does not fit the size requirements of the government, we discussed the possibilities with the Rotary Club, the City of La Paz and the National Systems of Libraries. After having received title to the property we’re prepared to further our plans to build a floor over the present building to house a public library complete with computers and the Internet.
Once the building is completed (hopefully by the end of 2008), the “Red Nacional” will supply computers, wireless connection to the Internet, a more extensive selection of books, and all necessary furniture. In addition, they will train an assistant librarian, and will offer workshops throughout the year for children of all ages to bring to them the vast world of books and the Internet.
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