The Queens Public Library is asking its users to help their counterparts in Egypt who had their libraries damaged and destroyed during last month’s political upheaval.
Last week the library set up a web site for people to donate funds to help rebuild two libraries in Cairo. During the protests, vandals stole materials and burned the buildings, according to Queens Public Library CEO Thomas Galante.
“The destruction of a public library is a blow felt by all,” he said in a statement. “We are issuing a rallying cry to libraries and library lovers globally to help our Egyptian friends rebuild and reopen as soon as possible.”
Queens Public Library is teaming up with the Integrated Care Society, which operates the network of public libraries in Cairo, to help organize the effort.
Log on to queenslibrary.org/ext/cairo/index.htm to donate money.
— Ivan Pereira
