The three newest and largest libraries, El Tunal, Virgilio Barco and El Tintal, have the capacity for 150,000 volumes and 600 reading posts. Each building has reading and reference rooms, play and reading areas for children, Internet and multimedia rooms, individual and group workstations, music rooms and auditoriums. The 16 smaller libraries are located throughout the city to ensure that no resident lives more than one kilometer from a branch.
These libraries offer programs and training opportunities that each day touch the lives of senior citizens, teachers, children and adults. With the 2002 Access to Learning Award, BibloRed will receive a US $1 million grant to expand their services and training programs that provide unprecedented opportunities for the people of Bogotá.
Creating Opportunity for Colombians
"The Access to Learning Award is a very important recognition for BibloRed, Bogotá's Network of Public Libraries and an exceptionally refreshing encouragement for our embattled country," says Margarita Peña, Secretary of Education for the District of Bogotá, who was instrumental in the formation of BibloRed. "We have undoubtedly perceived the considerable effects and social impact that is generated by providing access to information for all people."
Peña talks enthusiastically about how this award will help create even more opportunities for improving the lives of Colombians. "In the quest for social justice and economic competitiveness, Bogotá has a very powerful tool in its Public Library Network."
With this library system, she's optimistic about future prospects for Bogotá's most disadvantaged population. "In one year, we have improved the lives of more than three million children and adults by offering new educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities. BibloRed's vision is clear: to foster peace in a more equitable society by creating access for all.
A Free Place to Learn
In a section of the city without parks, without malls, and very few options for a child to pass the time, BibloRed's Tintal Public Library now serves as a beacon of hope. Luis Cárdenas, a 12-year-old boy who once was not enrolled in school, describes the Tintal Public Library as "a large white building" that "appeared without warning" in the area where he lives.
After BibloRed's Tintal library opened, Luis became a regular visitor almost immediately. He got involved in reading-incentive programs and technology workshops. As Luis’ time spent at the library grew, the librarians took note of his curiosity and eagerness to learn, and approached the Bureau of the Secretary of Education to help Luis register for school. So next year, Luis will be attending school. He says the library has given him the "opportunity to learn, to know the world, to become someone, to dream, to travel in time and space — without spending money."
Access to Employment
Alexander Umbarila, age 19, is currently unemployed. He travels by bus to the El Tunal library to look for employment via the Internet. Alexander says that Internet access in the library has helped him learn more about the world. He hopes to continue his education at a university and become a civil engineer.
Technology Improves Lives
Otilia Fonero viuda de Yanez is 77. She walks 45 minutes from her home in Bogotá to visit the Virgilio Barco library. A retired government worker, she is now learning to use the computer so she can better relate to her 23 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. She believes that by knowing how to use technology, people can improve their lives.