A remarkable transformation is taking place on the busy streets of Ankara, proving that other people’s discarded books can become a treasure trove of knowledge. Litter pickers, the unsung heroes of our streets, have breathed new life into forgotten books and created a mobile library that is playing its way into the hearts of Turkish communities.

With over 9,000 books rescued from oblivion, this library on wheels is more than just a collection – it is a beacon of hope for education and a testament to the power of second chances. The books are categorized into over 20 genres, from politics to romance novels. The mobile library is not just a repository for stories but also a gateway to different fields of knowledge.

This literary haven, housed in a lorry, is going to schools in the suburbs of Ankara to inspire a passion for reading in young minds. In an age dominated by screens and gadgets, the litter pickers want to offer an alternative – a world of imagination, stories, and wisdom contained within the pages of a book.

The impact goes far beyond Ankara’s borders, as a nationwide campaign is galvanizing support. Donated books are arriving from all corners of Turkey, transforming the mobile library into a symbol of community unity and the resilience of literature.

“Interest is growing. Every day, guests come here to borrow books or read in peace,” says the library director, reflecting the burgeoning enthusiasm for this unconventional initiative. An employee of the mobile library puts it aptly: “We hope it will amuse them and awaken a passion for books.”

In a country with hardly any public libraries, this mobile oasis is a glimmer of hope that bridges the gap and encourages a love of reading across social boundaries. The mobile library in Ankara is not just a repository for books but also a testament to the transformative power of collective action and the limitless potential within the pages of every book saved.

Sources:

• https://edition.cnn.com/2018/01/15/europe/garbage-collectors-open-library-with-abandoned-books/index.html

• https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/turkish-garbage-collectors-pick-out-their-own-library-180968015/

Written by Yağız