Speaking on the occasion of National Children's Week, Hossein Khosravi, the deputy for libraries, shared insights about these initiatives by the shrine’s libraries, emphasizing their aim to promote the culture of reading, Quranic values, Ahl al-Bait’s life and conduct, martyrdom, sacrifice, and bravery among young readers.
With a collection of 110,000 children's books across 60 libraries, the deputy provides substantial resources for young readers.
The libraries host diverse programs including book reading sessions, book fairs, competitions, painting activities, storytelling, and special enrichment classes to foster the growth and development of children.
Special attention is paid to religious education, given the libraries' affiliation with Imam Reza shrine.
He continued: “Programs like "On the Path of Wisdom," "The Circle of the Righteous Ones" and "Together with Children of Mosque" are organized alongside religious events such as Friday prayers and Eid al-Fitr celebrations. These activities aim to instill a deeper understanding of religious practices and values”.
“Classes on Quranic and religious studies are held in the libraries, and special publications for children are distributed during religious occasions like Ashura and Eid al-Ghadir. Celebrations and events are tailored to religious festivals, enhancing the children's understanding of their religious heritage”, noted Khosravi.
Khosravi further stressed: “Programs like "My Friend the Book" and "Kind Companion" are integral parts of promoting religious education among children”.
In the first half of this year alone, the shrine’s libraries across Mashhad (northeast Iran) and other cities welcomed 66,000 child visitors, who borrowed 80,000 books and read 76,150 volumes on-site.