Newsroom
The Deputy Minister of Culture, Vasiliki Kassianidou, highlighted the critical role libraries play in promoting mental health and empowering individuals during her speech at the "Literary Routes in Libraries" conference, held Friday at the University of Cyprus.
Speaking at the University’s library, Kassianidou emphasized that the Deputy Ministry is committed to transforming libraries into open, welcoming spaces that encourage critical thinking, self-expression, and social involvement. She stressed that these spaces are not just for reading and research but serve as hubs for building community and fostering meaningful conversations.
"Libraries are more than just places to store and read books," Kassianidou said. "They are places where people can connect with others who share similar interests and aspirations, creating a sense of belonging." She added that the Deputy Ministry is also prioritizing the training and empowerment of librarians to better support these goals.
This year, six municipal and community libraries are participating in the "Literacy Routes in Libraries" pilot project. The program aims to promote libraries as places for research, creativity, and philanthropy. It includes lectures, workshops, and interactive programs designed to engage children, parents, adults, and seniors in activities that encourage social responsibility and community involvement.
Kassianidou also thanked the Cyprus Union of Librarians and Information Scientists, as well as the libraries of the University of Cyprus and the Cyprus University of Technology, for their excellent cooperation in the planning and execution of the initiative.
By fostering these dynamic spaces, the Deputy Ministry hopes to cultivate a society where individuals are not only better informed but also more connected to their communities and empowered to act.
