Sascha Wilson
Libraries are safe spaces for children, particularly at a time when young people are increasingly targeted by predators, National Library and Information System Authority (Nalis) chairman Dr David Muhammed said on Monday.
Muhammed was speaking at the official opening of the San Fernando Public Library at the Edan Centre on Harris Promenade.
He said libraries have evolved beyond places where people simply borrow books, describing them as modern community centres that offer workshops, classes, discussions, homework support and access to technology.
He said they also provide safe spaces for young people.
“These libraries are safe spaces in societies where, more than ever, places have become unsafe. Where youth, children are targeted, there are predators out there.
“We have a whole database or watch list of persons who prey upon children, but they come to the library, they're safe, they're protected.”
Muhammed said libraries can also help children develop the knowledge and confidence needed to protect themselves from dangers in society.
“And they're also empowered with the kind of thinking to protect themselves by being in a frame of mind to know that they will not be vulnerable or susceptible to the evil plans and intentions that unfortunately exist within our societies.
“This is after the global pattern, a global crime where children are targeted.”
Muhammed said another library will soon be opened in Mayaro.
Education Minister and San Fernando West MP Dr Michael Dowlath also highlighted the importance of the facility, recalling memories associated with the original library at Library Corner.
Dowlath said the new facility caters for children with different learning needs, including those who are visually impaired.
“At my site visits I have also advocated for those learners who have learning challenges, those who are autistic, those who have ADHD. And so staff were very accommodating and they said there will be a particular section that would accommodate those students because at the Ministry of Education we believe that all children can learn.”
Dowlath added that he had mandated all school principals to ensure that every child graduates.
“No child must leave a school without an assessment of their skills, abilities and competencies.”
He said he was confident the new facility, with its technology and internet connectivity, would provide a safe and secure environment while creating greater opportunities for vulnerable students who may not have a suitable place to study at home.
The opening marks the return of library services to central San Fernando following the closure of the San Fernando West Indian Reference Library in September 2025 and the San Fernando North Community Library in March this year.
