LEBANON (Enmaeya News) - December 17, 2025

Minister of Culture Ghassan Salameh on Tuesday oversaw the handover of a large collection of books and periodicals to representatives of public libraries from across Lebanon, during a ceremony held at the National Library headquarters.

The donated materials, drawn from the collections of the Ministry of Culture and the National Library, are intended for distribution to public libraries in various governorates.

The initiative comes as part of the ministry’s broader policy to support public libraries and promote access to knowledge among different segments of society.

The program aims to expand library collections and provide diverse reading resources for readers of all ages and interests, particularly amid Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis, which has significantly limited individuals’ ability to purchase books.

Speaking at the event, Minister Salameh described the book donations as the first step in a wider, long-term project to revive public libraries across the country.

“This is the beginning of an ambitious plan to reactivate public libraries,” the minister said, adding that its impact will gradually become visible through both digital and print services, as well as specialized training for library staff.

Minister Salameh also announced that 2026 will largely be dedicated to public libraries within the ministry’s agenda, signaling an increased institutional focus on strengthening cultural and educational infrastructure nationwide.