A Library In The Annapurnas-Part One

VILLAGE OF ASTAM WITH ANNAPURNAS IN THE BACKGROUND

Welcome to the Himalayas! It was about noon by the time we arrived in our rented jeep, the back full of our boxes of books and a few extra customers sharing the ride up the steep trail with us. The Annapurnas were temporarily hiding behind a build up of thunder clouds, but I was more excited at seeing the children of Astam village open their boxes of books. I was not disappointed either way-the children were waiting at the foot path to help haul up the boxes of books, and later the clouds parted to reveal the amazing backdrop of the Himalayan mountains.

 CHILDREN NAMASTE FOR THE CAMERA, CATCH THEIR BREATH AND THEN UP THE HILL WE GO WITH A BIG BOX OF BOOKS!

I was told it was the first day of holidays for the children, who would be spread out across the village area in their homes, so I wasn't expecting the usual welcoming committee, but Astam was very excited about their library and so children were lining the walk way with garlands of flowers and many Namastes. A sign hung over the door that said "Supported by HANDS in Nepal"-it was a beautiful sight to see!

 BISHWO, THE VILLAGER WHO HELPED US WITH THIS PROJECT, HIS MOTHER AND JAN AT THE DOORWAY TO THE HANDS LIBRARY IN ASTAM

Inside, we let the children open the boxes and pour over the books. I was amazed at how immediately they began reading aloud. The room was soon full of a rhythmic murmur as little voices in Nepali and English read from their new books (children here learn both languages), and some put their little siblings on their laps and read to them. It was a reading extravaganza!

 After a good hour of reading and looking over every book, the older kids began to organize the library on their own. It was great to see the enthusiasm and care they took to place the books in the new shelves, equipped with sliding glass doors to keep out dust. The solar lights we brought were also displayed inside a glass cupboard, but I did suggest they take them out for reading at night, or distribute to homes so children can do their homework.

Stay tuned for Part 2 and more information about this progressive village, which has started an Eco Village for volunteers to stay at. They even have a recycling program, which is great to see in Nepal.
Until then, many Namastes to our supporters who have made a library happen again in a Himalayan village! I hope you all get to visit and see for yourself how appreciated and grateful the children are for your help.