New edition

Published on August 31, 2007

The glass and steel structure of the new Discovery Learning Library on Soi Phra Nang gives the stuffy area of Victory Monument a breath of fresh air. The area used to house an old-style building known as a communal library, but a few months ago, this renovated library opened its doors, beckoning everyone who wants to escape into the world of literature.

"We've seen a dramatic growth of visitors since we opened in March," says Sojirasami Kunsirichaiwat, a librarian at the Soi Phra Nang branch. "People used to perceive that a library is a scary, boring and dusty place, but we are here to change that. Now there are as many as 800 to 1,000 readers pouring into the library each day, especially during weekends."

The Soi Phra Nang branch is the second communal library to be renovated under the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority's bid to improve the quality of life for Bangkokians. The first library renovated was the one in Lumpini Park, where the exterior architecture was preserved while the interior was given a complete makeover.

The Soi Phra Nang branch is a completely new building. The old school-like structure was replaced with a contemporary one and has been complemented with a front lawn that doubles as an outdoor activity area.

The library is divided into three storeys, each containing two sections. The ground floor is accessible to everyone, including those who are not the library's members. There are stacks of the latest Thai magazines, newspapers and plenty of chairs and sofas for browsers to spend an hour or two soaking in the latest news and trends. For parents with children under the age of 8 years old, there is a children's section stocked picture books, toys, stuffed animals and scheduled plays and readings.

Membership gives you access to the second and third floors, which are devoted to serious readers and researchers. There are reference aisles as well as shelves of novels, fiction and Royal literature. For students looking for an air-conditioned room to do their homework in or have a meeting with a small study group, the library has a dedicated room for that purpose.

"Students are welcome to do their homework here," says Sojirasami. "We not only provide them with a nice place to ponder about their papers, but also reference books that they can use to do their research."

While the numbers and varieties of titles at this library are not as comprehensive some other libraries, the Discovery Learning Library has a good start. With smart combinations of a mini theatre showing rounds of cartoons and movies daily, Sojirasami says the library can effectively draw more children into reading activities, which is the main building block towards a knowledge-based society.

"We see lots of families coming here together instead of staying at home or going to department stores and wasting their money," says Sojirasami. "This makes me proud of my profession. Also, as a person who studied library science, I can now exercise my skills more when there are more visitors to the library. Also, you will see that we are all smiling and welcoming. We want to change the old look of the old-style library and attract more people to read. And with this new attractive building, we hope we will be successful."

Most books are in Thai and the Internet access is available only to members (membership is Bt10 per year per person). Parking is not available, but the library is not too far to walk from Victory Monument BTS station. Also, if you have good books you want to donate, the library is willing to accept them to expand their book collection. Just give them a call and Sojirasami will advise the security guard to arrange for your quick drop off.

Discovery Learning Library

Soi Phra Nang branch

Ratchawithee Soi 4

BTS: Victory Monument

Tuesday to Saturday, 8.30am to 8pm; Sundays and holidays 9am to 5pm (closed Mondays)

(02) 246 3517

www.bma.go.th/dll

Sirin P Wongpanit  

The writer can be reached at www.ohsirin.blogspot.com.