the commune and further a field are greatly encouraging. More and more people are becoming familiar with the idea of a library and using it to enrich their lives. One such case study draws this point home.
Sim Sophorn witnessed the killing of his father at the age of ten. He then became the family's breadwinner. He managed to still attend school but never had the opportunity to read books for pleasure. He is now 18 years old and lives with his widowed mother and siblings. He discovered the library and began reading books and working there two months ago. He is now the library assistant and helps local children learn English. His love of books and excitement are reward enough. Sim says: "I enjoy reading books here, this library is helping me explore the world outside my village through good books and pictures."
There are many more tales of the fulfillment and enrichment of the local's lives through the work of Lor Chandara. He says that although he does not have plans to set up similar libraries in other provinces he: "would like to encourage other organizations and individuals to build more libraries and learning centers in isolated areas of the country. I'm sure the rural Cambodians are really hungry for knowledge and education."
Teaching the habit of reading is important. This is not a native practice and is one that needs to be nurtured and encouraged. It is this way that will lead the people into the 21st century and beyond. In this way the library acts as a bridge between those who can access such information within the urban centers of the country and those who have little or no access to such information. LC is optimistic:" I can say our people would no longer live in isolation like a frog in a well, where it is just surrounded by darkness and debased by ignorance."
To make a donation, or to find out more, contact Lor Chandara, P.O. Box 27, #50B St 240 Phnom Penh, or call 012-924-463, alternatively email: takeomedialibrary@hotmail.com, chandara@camdaily.forum.org.kh