Unusual discover: A refrigerator adorned with books found on the public street in Jlobin.
The literary landscape of Belarus is set to undergo a change with the opening of a unique night bookstore in Minsk. The event, organised by the Belarusian offline store network and online platform Oz, is scheduled for July 16, from 9:00 pm to 4:00 am.
Unlike traditional bookstores, this night bookstore will not be located on the street or use repurposed refrigerators as bookshelves, as is the case with the open-air library in Zhlibin, Gomel region. Instead, it will be situated on Prospekt Pobediteley in Minsk.
While the night bookstore is not directly related to the open-air library in Zhlibin, it shares a common goal of promoting reading and community interaction. Belarusians have promised night discounts up to 40% at the night bookstore, but there's a catch - in exchange for a book taken, one is expected to bring two books.
This concept of a night bookstore is not new to Oz, as it is a continuation of previous years' events by the organisation. People attending the night bookstore in pajamas will receive special gifts, adding a touch of fun to the literary affair.
Meanwhile, the open-air library in Zhlibin, Gomel region, operates on the principle of public open libraries: read it - pass it on. Unlike a traditional library, there is no requirement to return the book taken from the open-air library. A sign on one of the refrigerators reads: "Take one book - bring two in return. Three is even better."
The idea of open-air libraries has been well-received by viewers who were not previously familiar with the bookcrossing movement. One viewer wrote, "Cool initiative!", while another suggested expanding the geography of open-air libraries, stating "There's a lack of this in parks!!!"
The concept of open-air bookcrossing libraries, often known as *Little Free Libraries* or street book exchanges, has been spreading globally as a way to encourage free book sharing and community reading. These libraries are typically small, outdoor, publicly accessible boxes or shelves where people can take or leave books at any time, fostering a culture of informal book lending and reading in public spaces.
The trend started in the United States in the early 2000s, with the first one established in 2009. It soon gained popularity worldwide as an innovative way to promote literacy and community interaction. The trend has since spread to many countries and environments, including urban parks, residential neighbourhoods, and scenic outdoor settings. For example, in Slovenia, there are forest libraries offering open-air reading experiences surrounded by nature, blending the charm of bookcrossing with tranquil outdoor settings.
While specific documented history specific to Belarus or Zhlibin is not widely available, the spread of bookcrossing and open-air libraries has been a global grassroots movement. Enthusiasts in these areas often use bookcrossing as a way to improve access to books and foster social connections in local communities.
In summary, the opening of the night bookstore in Minsk and the continued operation of the open-air library in Zhlibin are exciting developments in Belarus' literary scene. They reflect a growing global movement towards promoting literacy, community interaction, and a shared culture of reading in unique and accessible ways.
What kind of items could one find at the night bookstore aside from books related to lifestyle, home-and-garden, and entertainment?Could a community member trade in two books for a discount at the night bookstore's July 16 event, or is it necessary to bring three books as suggested by the sign in the open-air library in Zhlibin?
