Syria's Secret Library: The true story of how a besieged Syrian town found hope

Daraya, a city on the outskirts of Damascus, is under siege by Syrian government forces since 2011. Despite the destruction, a secret library thrives, hidden beneath the ruins. The library is a symbol of hope and resilience, with books rescued from the war and cherished by the people. It is a testament to the power of literature and the importance of preserving knowledge in times of crisis.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 320 pages
\n Publication date: 11 July 2019
\n Publisher: Orion Publishing Co
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Daraya, a small town located on the outskirts of Damascus, exists in a world entirely different from the rest of Syria. Since 2011, it has been under siege by the Syrian government forces, leading to a devastating situation for its residents. Food shortages, constant bombardment by bombs and missiles, and sniper shootings have become a daily reality for the people of Daraya. The town's buildings, including office buildings, shops, and family homes, have been shattered by the relentless shelling from the government forces. However, amidst this scene of frightening devastation, there lies a secret library that is hidden from the eyes of the world.

No signs or markings indicate the presence of this secret library. While the streets above reverberate with the sound of rifle fire and shelling, the peaceful world below offers a sanctuary of tranquility. Books, in endless rows, line nearly every wall of the library. Grand leather-bound volumes sit alongside tattered old tomes with barely legible spines. Pocket-sized guides to Syrian poetry are interspersed with religious works adorned with gaudy gold lettering and no-nonsense reference books, all meticulously arranged in well-ordered lines.

What makes this precious hoard of books even more remarkable is that it was not acquired through traditional means such as publishers, book warehouses, or loans from other libraries. Many individuals have risked their lives to save books from the destruction caused by the war. To them, the secret library symbolizes hope—a testament to their unwavering determination to lead meaningful lives and rebuild their fractured society.

This is the story of an extraordinary place and the people who brought it to life. It is also a book about human resilience and values. Throughout the narrative, the universal love for books and the potential they hold to bring about change is woven seamlessly. Books, like food, are essential to the soul, providing nourishment, knowledge, and inspiration.

In the face of adversity, the people of Daraya have shown remarkable strength and resilience. They have found solace and a sense of purpose in the secret library, a haven where they can escape the horrors of war and immerse themselves in the world of literature. The library has become a symbol of hope, a place where people can gather to read, learn, and connect with others.

The secret library is not just a collection of books; it is a testament to the power of human creativity and perseverance. It has become a source of inspiration for the people of Daraya, reminding them that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of light and renewal.

The story of the secret library in Daraya is a powerful reminder of the importance of education and the role that libraries play in shaping societies

In conclusion, the secret library in Daraya is a remarkable testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit. It is a symbol of hope, a place where books and literature provide solace and a means of escape from the horrors of war. The story of the secret library reminds us of the power of human creativity, the importance of education, and the role that libraries play in shaping our world. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of light and renewal, and that the love for books can bring people together and inspire change.

\n Weight: 600g\n
Dimension: 233 x 170 x 29 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781474605908\n \n