Small “Little Free Libraries” have started to adorn the walls of Dhaka University, marking an innovative effort to promote a culture of reading among students.

The initiative was launched on Friday afternoon to mark Revolution and Solidarity Day. It was taken by Shakib Biswas, member secretary of the Bijoy Ekattor Hall unit of Chhatra Dal, under the overall supervision of BM Kawsar, joint secretary of Dhaka University Chhatra Dal.

The first library was inaugurated on the premises of the Faculty of Business Studies. On the opening day, several more libraries were installed at popular spots across the campus, including the Faculty of Social Sciences, Teacher-Student Centre (TSC), and the Institute of Social Welfare.

Made of wood and tin, each small library contains around 50 books on various subjects such as politics, literature, economics and philosophy. Students can freely read from these libraries or contribute their own books to expand the collection.

Speaking to Daily Sun, Shakib Biswas said, “The ‘Little Free Library’ is my small effort for the knowledge-hungry students of Dhaka University. I want to inspire more students to read and make access to books easier. The students themselves will be responsible for managing these libraries.”

BM Kawsar said, “Similar small libraries exist in many universities around the world. Although the idea is relatively new in Bangladesh, we hope this initiative will encourage a culture of shared learning and awareness. Reading will make students more politically, socially and economically conscious.”

The visually appealing mini-libraries, now seen in various corners of the campus, have already drawn enthusiastic responses from students who see them as a refreshing addition to the university’s cultural life.