100 Box Libraries and Tech Bags

Box Libraries Initiative 2024
Bringing Stories, Joy, and Learning to Pakistan’s Remote Corners
By Alif Laila Book Bus Society

Overview

In 2024, Alif Laila Book Bus Society (ALBBS) proudly launched the Box Libraries Initiative, an ambitious and heartfelt mission to ignite the love of reading in some of Pakistan’s most underserved and remote communities. Where books were once a distant dream, we brought vibrant libraries filled with color, curiosity, and imagination.

"I never had storybooks before. Now I can read about animals, space, and funny kids like me!"
– Ayesha, Age 9, Government Primary School Wazirabad

Our Objectives

• Expand Access to Literature: Provide diverse, age-appropriate books to children who have never stepped into a library.
• Foster Joyful Learning Spaces: Design libraries that invite children to sit, explore, and fall in love with stories.
• Promote Educational Equity: Level the playing field for rural and remote children with access to resources their urban peers enjoy.

Where We Worked: Our Box Libraries in Action

Each box library was thoughtfully customized to meet the unique needs of its community:

Kitab Kahani Libraries

Four vibrant libraries were set up at:

• Government Primary School, Wazirabad
• Government Primary School, Terkhanwala
• Government Primary School, Hayatpur
• Government Primary School, Ustad Muhammad, Balochistan

FAS School Library

Established in District Bannu, this library now serves hundreds of eager young readers.

Gwadar Library

Reinforced with three new boxes of curated publications, adding fresh energy to an existing reading space.

Building More Than Just Libraries

We didn’t just deliver books—we built a world of learning:

• Furniture & Cushions for cozy reading corners
• Games & Posters to encourage playful learning
• Picture Books, Encyclopedias & Fiction for all reading levels

"I love the new cushions. I sit there and pretend I’m in the story!"
– Bilal, Age 8, Hayatpur

Spotlight: Sato Katla Hamdan Quarters

This community library is a shining example of what happens when access meets engagement.

• Surveys & Lesson Plans: Tailored content based on real community needs
• Equal Access: Girls and boys attend story sessions Monday to Thursday
• Outdoor Reading Days: Weekly trips to parks where books meet nature
• Skill Building: Storytelling, kitchen gardening, and creative games
• Assessment Tools: Tracking reading progress with measurable outcomes

"The park reading day is my favorite. We read under trees and laugh together!"
– Sana, Age 10

Impact That Speaks Volumes

The Box Libraries Initiative is changing lives—one child, one book at a time.

• Improved Literacy: Regular reading has boosted comprehension and vocabulary.
• Stronger Communities: Libraries are now safe, shared spaces for children and families.
• Empowered Learners: Students gain confidence, curiosity, and joy in learning.

Looking Ahead

This initiative has lit a spark—but there are still many villages where children have never held a picture book.

We dream of reaching them all.

With your continued support, we can scale this model to dozens more communities across Pakistan—transforming not only how children learn, but how they dream.

“I want to be a writer one day, so other kids can read my books in these libraries.”
– Imran, Age 11, Bannu

Thank You

To our generous donors, volunteers, teachers, and community partners—you made this possible.

Together, we’re building a more literate, imaginative, and hopeful Pakistan.