Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has announced plans to establish branches of the National Library in six islands this year as part of efforts to expand library services across the atolls.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office last week, minister Heena said work has already begun on establishing library branches in Addu City and Fuvahmulah City under a wider initiative to expand services beyond the capital. She noted that encouraging research, learning and reading among young people remains one of the National Library’s key priorities.

According to the minister, the long-term goal is to establish a library branch on every island in the Maldives, with planning currently underway to achieve that objective. 

The six islands selected for new library branches this year are Ihavandhoo, Kelaa, Kendhikulhudhoo, Mandhoo, Meedhoo and Buruni. 

The expansion of library services and the promotion of research and scientific learning are among the pledges outlined by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.