Rabat brings books to parks and public spaces as UNESCO World Book Capital 2026
Books are not only a source of knowledge but also a tool for social integration. When they leave the walls of libraries and appear in parks and streets, reading becomes part of everyday life, uniting people and reviving the love of pages in the era of screens.
Three city libraries that have opened in public parks are part of Rabat's efforts to make books more accessible beyond traditional libraries. "Books play a fundamental role in learning, culture and education, but their contribution to social integration should not be underestimated. That is the idea behind the initiative to create libraries in public places, bringing books closer to people in their daily lives, going beyond traditional closed libraries," said Loubna Nasri, a member of the "Rabat — World Book Capital 2026" organisation.
The new spaces combine reading with parks and historical landmarks, offering residents a different setting for getting to know books. "It is a quiet and calm place surrounded by nature. The opportunity to read in such a green, open space helps you relax and makes the whole process much more enjoyable," said Yasmine Houyi, a student from Morocco. For students, easier access to books also means more opportunities to incorporate reading into their daily lives. "As a student, I really enjoy having access to such books. Reading helps improve our memory, develop skills and expand our vocabulary," said Oumaima Lehal, another student from Morocco.
The initiative also aims to bring the love of books back to the younger generation, as screens increasingly compete for their attention. "These days we spend so much time on phones and computers and less time reading books. But when you find such an open space, with books and a pleasant place to sit and read, it encourages you to read more and come back again and again," said Oussama, a resident of Rabat.
The programme in Rabat is expected to expand to other public places, including railway stations, encouraging passengers and students to read while travelling. As reported by CCTV+, Rabat's initiative demonstrates how cities can adapt cultural programmes to modern challenges, making reading accessible and attractive for all generations.
