I always imagined that paradise would be some kind of library, Borges said. For this reason, it is important to highlight the management of AGIPA, Guides of the Galapagos National Park. Inspired by their principles for humanity and community, they manage a space that encourages reading, as well as the implementation, rehabilitation and equipping of the first and only public library in Galapagos- Santa Cruz. This library provides cultural and multimedia services in the areas of education, science and conservation. It is reality; today, a new stage has begun.
In 2018 and October 2019, thanks to donations from the NGO YachtAid Global, the community can count on a place with educational multimedia, computers, internet access, a printer, projectors, screens and a collection of 1800 books, in addition to adequate infrastructure: water, air conditioning, lighting, security system, lockers, shelves, tables, chairs and toilets, which had not been up-graded for several years.
Within this context, Agipa stipulates the hiring of a librarian during opening hours from Monday to Friday, and will cover the salary with its own funds for the first few months. Ivanova Alvarez is developing a program to expand library services: to promote reading, organizing of presentations, courses, workshops, poetic encounters. There is a billboard of activities aimed at all ages to help develop skills and abilities, since art and education are the seedbed of peaceful creations.
In 2020, IGTOA joined the library project to continue down the path of integration by building educational and cultural spaces. Encouraging citizen participation is a constant but very rewarding challenge in order to maintain a permanent library.
On October 5, 2019 at 9:00 a.m., the Library opened to the public. On December 6, 2020, the Library for Galapagos and the World is officially established. The Charles Darwin Foundation contributed to the first improvements of the physical space, and has continued to give aid that includes technical support in managing and coordinating activities.
To date, around 75 library events have been hosted. Scientists and researchers have given free presentations on their research studies such as on the exuberant flora and fauna of the Archipelago. As well, students from schools, colleges and universities come to inquire about different topics; thus the main function of the library in eliminating an information gap is succeeding.
