The distinctive street library nestled in the Miyawaki forest near Rialto Bridge on Murree Road has been temporarily closed by the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) due to incidents of book theft. Several books were stolen by drug addicts who vandalized the library’s glass.
In response to these unfortunate events, the RDA has taken swift action to safeguard the remaining books. They have decided to store the books in secure custody at their offices until the library can be reopened. The Director General of RDA, Saif Anwar Jappa, assured the public that the library will resume its services within a few days.
Additionally, the RDA is committed to enhancing the security measures around the library to prevent such incidents in the future. They plan to deploy personnel to monitor the library’s surroundings and ensure the safety of the books. This unique street library was established in 2021 with the support of a social welfare organization and marked a pioneering effort in Rawalpindi, offering seating arrangements for visitors.
The street library provides a one-of-a-kind experience for readers, allowing them to immerse themselves in books amidst the tranquil and lush ambiance of the Miyawaki urban forest, which boasts an impressive collection of 8,000 plants from 52 different species. The main goal of this initiative is to promote book recycling and sharing, facilitate easy access to literature for community members, and foster social interaction and connection among residents.
