Ibn Rushd Library

The Ibn Rushd Library has been at the forefront of nurturing the emotional, educational, and social well-being of children in the Al Aqaba Village and its surrounding regions, thanks to the unwavering support of our donors. Through an array of meticulously curated activities, the library has not only become a haven for learning but also a sanctuary for children to express their deepest emotions and aspirations amidst the ongoing challenges.

Under the guidance of Librarian Shafeqa, we've taken significant strides in integrating art as a therapeutic and expressive medium for children. One particularly poignant initiative had the children engage with the narrative of a Palestinian artist's resilience, using art as a means to voice aspirations amid adversity. This led to an exercise where the children created two sets of freehand drawings: one illustrating their personal dreams, and the other empathetically portraying the dreams they imagined children in Gaza might hold.

Expanding our scope to cater to the youngest minds, Shafeqa introduced the new batch of kindergarteners to the enchanting world of books and the foundational rules of library etiquette. These sessions were carefully designed to intertwine storytelling with learning, sparking early interest in literature and learning.

In a celebration of cultural heritage, the library hosted a folk story session that went beyond the narrative, inviting children to immerse themselves in traditional Palestinian attire, deepening their connection to their roots and the rich tapestry of their culture.

The essence of childhood — play, and creativity — was embraced through outdoor games and activities that encouraged children to bring their favorite story characters to life through art and impersonation, advocating for a holistic development approach.

Looking ahead, the library held a special plenary session to collaboratively plan future activities, ensuring that the children's voices and suggestions are central to our agenda. This participative approach not only empowers the children but also ensures the library remains a dynamic and responsive haven for learning and personal development.
The progress we share today could not have been possible without the generous contributions of our donors. Your continued support is pivotal in sustaining and expanding the impact of the Ibn Rushd Library. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to share further achievements as we continue this enriching journey together, fostering a nurturing environment for the children of Al Aqaba Village and beyond.

Please note, our report was written before the war.

The Ibn Rushd Library continues to be a place of learning and activities for children of Al Aqaba Village. It is also a place where children get to relax and take a break from their challenging environment. The library also welcomes visitors from other areas. Children from Tayaseer, not too far from Al Aqaba, who don’t have a library are regular visitors of Ibn Rushd Library. Ibn Rushd Library also received children from the Jordan Valley who were introduced to the library facilities. 

• The talented librarian, Shafeqa is doing a marvelous job. Shafeqa puts a lot of thought into the selection of books she reads to the children. These books are selected according to the needs of the hour. Because of the challenging situation for Palestinian communities in the West Bank, many children suffer in silence. Shafeqa read a book called “Eater of Sorrow'' (translated name from Arabic) that talked about the correct way of dealing with fears and loss, by talking to family and friends. After the book reading session, children were encouraged to discuss their feelings. 

• Another interesting book titled “I Wish I Could Say No'' (translated name from Arabic) was read to the children. Children learned that it's okay to say no and how to say it politely. Shafeqa carried out an exercise with the children, in which they were given situations and were asked to respond to a request.

• Following the attacks on the Jenin Refugee Camp last summer, children were very upset. Shafeqa encouraged children to make colorful drawings for the residents of the Jenin Refugee Camp and sent these along with thoughtful notes.  

• On average, 20-25 children attend book reading sessions. Older children enjoy reading on their own and also borrow books from the library.  

• Children enrolled in the art group continue to hone their artistic skills. They are learning how to paint in different mediums and working on watercolor paintings. Even though there is a designated corner for the art group in the library, sometimes they also sit in the park to do still life. Children are working for an exhibition that will be held in the Tubas Governorate.  

• To boost imagination and creativity, the art group is sometimes assigned a particular theme to work on. One of these themes was public accountability. The group came up with impressive sketches and paintings on the subject. 

• On the occasion of World Climate Day, children were taught about the importance of looking after the environment and the extent to which our daily habits and actions affect it. Children painted a mural with the participation of the children of the Jordan Valley. 

• Shafeqa helped girls participate in an event held at the Tubas Cultural Center and trained the girls in Palestinian folk dance.    

• The library collaborated with the War Child Foundation and organized a series of sessions for children that revolved around access to safe education. In one of the sessions on ‘respect’ girls from Tayaseer also participated.  

• In close collaboration with the Tamer Foundation, Shafeqa is also developing a code of conduct for the protection of children.

• During the summer, many fun activities and games were also organized for the children.

Shafeqa shared that the library needs stationery, new books, novels for teenage children, visual aids such as projectors, and computers. 

Thank you for supporting the library. By supporting Ibn Rushd Library, you're helping children develop a love of book reading and also helping them develop life skills. With your help, we can continue to to offer these services to the children.