British Council Celebrates 10 Years of Reopening Libraries in Pakistan

The British Council Libraries in Karachi and Lahore celebrated a significant milestone this year, marking 10 years of dedicated service to their communities. The anniversary event on October 8th brought together influential figures from Pakistan’s cultural, educational, public and creative sectors, including senior British Council officials, government representatives, industry leaders, educators, influencers, authors, artists and long-term library members.

During the past decade, these libraries have made substantial contributions to Pakistani society. They have welcomed over 50,000 members, hosted more than 600 diverse events ranging from book launches to cultural programs, and engaged more than 20,000 children and young learners in reading and educational activities. James Hampson, Country Director of the British Council Pakistan, expressed pride in the growth of these libraries as welcoming spaces where individuals can learn, exchange ideas, discover culture, and forge connections, both locally and with the UK.

The celebration of this milestone underscores the British Council’s commitment to fostering connections through education, arts, and culture. It also highlights the vital role of community centers in Pakistan that promote reading, creativity, lifelong learning, and cultural engagement. The ten-year journey of these libraries represents both a reflection on their achievements and a new beginning focused on providing accessible spaces for communities to explore new ideas.

For those interested in joining the British Council Libraries in Karachi and Lahore, free tours are available, with membership options including individual, family, and quarterly plans. Members gain access to library resources, programs, and activities. Additionally, Digital Library Members enjoy 24/7 access to a vast array of online learning and entertainment content. More information can be found on the British Council website.