The Benque Viejo Public Library
The history of the Benque Viejo Library started back in the 1950’s, when it was opened under the direction of the Aguallo sisters, opening twice a week. The library was later moved to the old Town Hall building. After the building burnt down in a 1970 fire, it was temporarily moved to Churchill Street until the new Town Hall was available in 1976. Mrs Judith Gonzales was the first full time librarian employed and has been working for the community at the library ever since. In 1998 Ms Miriam Valdez was employed as Library Assistant.
The second floor of the Library is divided into two sections, the latter being used as a Pre-school until 2003, when it moved to new quarters. The library was then expanded to the first floor and the second room became the adult section, as well as housing a number of computers.
The library has a wonderful selection of books available for all ages. It has a variety of books on all subjects and human areas. These include fiction, non-fiction, history, encyclopaedias, novels, reference books about Belize and much more. Books are lent out on two week periods, except for reference books. These books are received mainly from the National Library Service but also by donations.
The library also offers internet at $0.10 per minute. Black and white copying is another service offered. The library also has an audio and video system for watching videos.
The Benque Viejo Library offers many programs for children, including an annual summer program where various topics are explored by children. Various children’s programs have also been under-taken as part of the Canada Fund project. Canada fund has also been responsible for donating much needed equipment for the library such as three computers and other furniture and tables.
In February 2003, after 10 years of planning, construction commenced on a new library building. The project was being funded by the Government of Belize but circumstanced caused it to halt July of the same year. The construction to this date is now complete, with the new building being situated in a lovely garden where persons can read a book in peace and tranquillity or just meditate. This building has a full computer room, much larger books section for both children and adults, an office for staff and washroom for both clients and staff, all contained in a pleasing modern building, airy and light with an atmosphere conducive to study and learning. The library hopes this new building is an incentive for more people to use the library to its full potential.
