Belize National Library Service and Information System (BNLSIS)
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Indian Church Community Library

The Indian Church Community Library was established in 2005, transforming a former teacher’s one-room house into a center for knowledge and learning. Through an agreement with the Ministry of Education, the building, no longer needed for teacher housing, was officially donated to serve as the village library.

The library's founding was inspired by Mrs. Laura Howard, a visitor from the United States, who envisioned the need for such a resource in the community. She donated the first collection of books and personally covered the first year of operating hours, which were Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Mrs. Lorena Stanchley served as the library's first Community Librarian. After she relocated to Canada a year later, Mrs. Sonia Arevalo took on the role and has remained the dedicated Community Librarian ever since.

In October 2016, Hurricane Earl caused significant damage to the building, destroying the library’s roof. As part of a community rebuilding effort, the library underwent vital repairs and improvements. 

These included:

A new roof

An extension to the building

The addition of a dedicated adult reading room

Installation of new furniture

The Indian Church Community Library continues to thrive, providing a welcoming and enriched space for both children and adults, and standing as a symbol of community effort, international support, and resilience.

 

Business Hours
Monday-Friday1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Community Librarian:Mrs. Sonia Arevalo
Address:Indian Church Village, Orange Walk, Belize