Launched in 2016 with our pilot programme in the remote village of Misgar in the Gojal area of Hunza, IEI Libraries are an integral part of the work we do to support the provision of quality education opportunities for children in remote public schools in Gilgit Baltistan. Each library is a colorful, inspiring space with interiors carefully curated by our team of artists and architects using concepts of learning space design to offer a flexible and engaging learning experience to children. Equipped with books and computers, these libraries create access to basic resources that are an important part of a school’s offerings.

Since the set up of the first library in 2016, we have received powerful feedback indicating that the libraries are helping children build connections with books and reading, improving the reading culture in the community at large, and supporting literacy improvement efforts. The addition of digital tools, like computers and multimedia, is creating access to technology and promoting digital literacy. 

The availability of computers and multimedia are enhancing the digital access of low-technology communities. Anecdotal evidence received from the school administration, parents and community members also indicates the powerful role of IEI libraries in creating community-wide impact for sustainable literacy improvement support.