Assabil, Culture for All
Who Are We?
ASSABIL Association (ASSABIL) is a non-governmental organization founded in 1997 to establish and promote public libraries and open cultural spaces in Lebanon. By creating public spaces for reading and culture - non-sectarian spaces of exchange that are open to all - ASSABIL vowed to fill a void following the Lebanese Civil War, thus responding to a ‘social necessity’.
The first municipal public library of Beirut opened its doors in 2000 in Bachoura, surrounded by some 20 public schools located within 10 minutes walking distance. It was followed by the opening of libraries in Geitawi (2004) and Monot (2008), as well as the launch of the mobile libraries, Kotobus, in 2008 serving mainly public schools and non-formal education centers in need in remote areas.
What We Do?
We welcome people of all ages, religions, and socio-economic and educational backgrounds to enjoy our services that include:
Access to libraries
Free access to a collection of 50,000 books available at our Beirut municipal public libraries.
Network of libraries
A network of 25 public libraries all around Lebanon.
Community outreach
Community outreach through a mobile library that visits public schools and NGOs serving underprivileged children.
Cultural activities
Regular cultural and educational activities in Beirut.
Resource and training center
A Resource and Training Center for professionals in public libraries, schools, cultural centers, and community-based organizations. Resource material and activity toolkits targeting librarians and educators.
Circulation services
Including the access to a wide variety of print and digital materials.
Consultancy services
Consultancy services for individuals and entities interested in establishing libraries.
Partnerships
We also seek partnerships with municipalities across Lebanon to establish and operate public libraries.