The Child-Friendly Library Opening at SDN 76 Buton: A Sweet Gift on World Book Day

The atmosphere at SDN 76 Buton was different on April 24, 2025. Children gathered with enthusiastic faces to celebrate the inauguration of the Child-Friendly Library, which coincided with World Book Day on April 23. With great excitement, they counted down: “Three… two… one…” and the ribbon was cut—marking the official opening of their new library.

The children’s joy was truly radiant. They couldn’t wait to enter the library, flip through the pages of books, and enjoy the experience of reading in a space that is now more comfortable and inviting.

The inauguration event was attended by the Lasalimu Subdistrict Head, representatives from the Southeast Sulawesi Education Quality Assurance Agency (BPMP), village officials, teachers, the principal, parents, Taman Bacaan Pelangi’s manager, and donor representatives, including the Givaudan team from both Indonesia and global offices.

In his speech, Che Ping Lee, a representative from Givaudan, shared an inspiring story about the vital role families play in fostering children’s interest in reading. He emphasized, “We hope this library won’t just exist, but will be used effectively. Parents play a major role. I personally read books to both of my children starting when they were three years old. Now they’re grown up and are avid readers.”

Meanwhile, Mrs. Erni Mekuo, Head of the Subdivision at BPMP Southeast Sulawesi, highlighted the importance of the library in the local educational context. “According to the national education report, literacy levels among children in Buton are still relatively low. This child-friendly library is a very appropriate first measure. Children need to strengthen their basic literacy before being taught digital skills like coding,” she said.

This library is not just about books. It is a symbol of hope, a safe space, and a collective effort to uphold children’s right to quality, enjoyable, and liberating education.