On the occasion of the 18th National Library Day, Room to Read inaugurated 48 school libraries across three rural municipalities in Kapilvastu district on Sunday. Of these, 33 libraries are ready for immediate use by students, while 15 require additional seating arrangements before becoming fully functional.

The inauguration aligns with the nationwide theme announced by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology: ‘Our Library: Our Future’, to promote quality education and literacy in Nepal.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, said, “The state has a responsibility to redefine libraries not merely as spaces for storing books but as centres for the overall development of society.”

During the inauguration of the school library at Gautam Buddha Basic School, Prakash Gaire, ward chairperson of Ward No 3, Kapilvastu Municipality, said, “We are excited to have quality reading materials and a child-friendly space for students to enjoy reading and deepen their love for books.”

“Libraries are more than just spaces to access books—they are foundations for curiosity, creativity, and opportunity,” said Pushkar Lal Shrestha, country director of Room to Read Nepal. “By working closely with governments, schools, and communities, we continue to ensure that every child has the chance to learn, read, and thrive.”

Since its establishment in 2000, Room to Read has established 4,959 school libraries across 31 districts.