REBUILDINGTHE LIBRARIES

BEIRUT PORT EXPLOSION: SPREADING CULTURE FOR ALL IN THE FACE OF TRAGEDY

Lebanon was hit by tragedy once again on August 4, 2020, when more than 2,700 tons of ammonium nitrate caught fire at the Beirut port causing an explosion to rip through the capital at 6:08 pm. The three public libraries of the Municipality of Beirut managed by ASSABIL were severely damaged. Although the damage to the Monot Municipal library was minimal, the Bachoura and Geitawi Municipal libraries remained out of service until ASSABIL conducted an intensive rehabilitation project that lasted from August until November.

ASSABIL was humbled by the quick and overwhelming support from organizations and individuals from across the world committed to the rebuilding of Beirut’s public libraries.

ASSABIL took advantage of this support to rebuild and rehabilitate the public municipal libraries of Beirut to the best possible condition so as to be able to serve the public.

ASSABIL, CULTURE FOR ALL

THANK YOU LETTER TO ALL DONORS

The overwhelming support received from individuals and organizations across the world is the reason that ASSABIL was able to overcome the challenges and tragic events of 2020. This support also affirmed the importance of ASSABIL as a vital cultural institution in Beirut and re-ignited the passion of our team to carry on its mission to spread Culture for All – despite the challenging circumstances. Following the explosion in the Beirut port, ASSABIL announced its commitment to re-establish Beirut’s Municipal public libraries as spaces for meeting, for dialogue, for culture, for positive interaction, and for free access to knowledge. Bringing these public spaces to life has been ASSABIL’s mission for over 20 years. Our promise to provide Culture for All residents in Lebanon is a promise that, thanks to our supporters, we are able to keep.