From Zero to Hero@Kampung Lindungan, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

People need a place that can give them a safe environment and excitement, but not everyone can afford to have that. Seeing this as an opportunity, we bring to life the idea of containers-based library—a library that is built by using shipping containers. A containers-based library is especially beneficial for the B40 communities—low-cost residential areas communities—since it has the advantage of faster construction with lower expenditure. An often-overlooked advantage of shipping containers is their durability and toughness, which means they are more than strong enough to be used as a library. Our first containers-based library was built in Kampung Lindungan, a B40 area. Spread in 3,930 square foot, it is equipped with multimedia PCs with Internet connection, free WiFi, a seminar room, an interactive children section, nursing room, comfortable reading areas, and reading materials for all age groups. Beautiful landscape work with an urban farm surrounds this library. Through smart partnership with government agencies and NGOs, Kampung Lindungan library continues to flourish. It has attracted 7,000 users and more than 2,800 book circulation recorded within its first six months operation. From used shipping containers to a full-fledged library, it has given a new hope to the B40 communities.