Wolasi, September 17, 2026 – Taman Bacaan Pelangi (TBP), in collaboration with the Givaudan Foundation, inaugurated its 263rd Child-Friendly Library at SD Negeri 5 Wolasi in South Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi. The library is expected to expand children’s access to quality reading materials and foster a love of reading from an early age. The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Head of General Affairs Subdivision of BPMP Southeast Sulawesi, representatives of the South Konawe Regency Education Office, the Givaudan field team, and parents.

A welcoming dance performed by SDN 5 Wolasi students during the inauguration of their school’s child-friendly library

With support from the Givaudan Foundation, TBP provided 1,250 high-quality children’s books comprising more than 400 titles. The books feature engaging illustrations, a variety of themes, and reading levels tailored to students’ abilities. With a diverse collection suited to different reading levels, children are encouraged to discover books they enjoy while gradually developing their literacy skills.

To ensure the library can be used effectively, the principal and teachers of SD Negeri 5 Wolasi also completed a five-day training program. The training equipped them with the skills to manage a child-friendly library and design and facilitate enjoyable and meaningful reading activities for students.

SDN 5 Wolasi students reading books during the child-friendly library inauguration

In her remarks, Rika Ernita Mekuo, S.Si., M.Si., Head of General Affairs Subdivision at BPMP Southeast Sulawesi, emphasized the importance of collective efforts to improve students’ literacy skills in South Konawe Regency.

“The Education Report Card for South Konawe Regency indicates that literacy outcomes still need improvement. Therefore, we must make the most of this child-friendly library program. We hope the library will encourage students to develop a greater love of reading, broaden their horizons, and improve their literacy skills. The active support and involvement of school principals, teachers, and parents are essential to ensuring that the benefits of this program are sustained,” she said.

The Head of General Affairs Subdivision at BPMP Southeast Sulawesi accompanying students as they read in the library

Sobirin, S.I.P., Chair of the SD Negeri 5 Wolasi School Committee, also expressed his support for the program. With a longstanding connection to the school, he reflected on its journey from a small one-roof school in the middle of the forest to the institution it is today.

“I was one of the pioneers in establishing this school when it was still a one-roof school in the middle of the forest. I also once worked here as an educator. That is why I am deeply grateful to see the school receive support through this child-friendly library program. This is the first assistance we have ever received, and we welcome it with great joy,” Sobirin said.

He also highlighted the importance of providing children with meaningful alternatives amid increasing screen time.

“As children spend more of their daily lives using devices and consuming digital content, this library offers them an opportunity to discover more stories, knowledge, and experiences through books. My hope is that the children will read and enjoy the entire collection, making the library an integral part of their learning activities at school,” he added.

Through its collaboration with the Givaudan Foundation, TBP continues to work toward creating learning environments that nurture children’s love of reading and strengthen their literacy skills. The inauguration of the library at SD Negeri 5 Wolasi is another step toward ensuring that more children have access to quality reading materials and better learning opportunities.