Jalacte Community Library
The Jalacte Community Library first opened its doors to the community in 2002, operating from a small space within the village school under the leadership of its first Community Librarian, Mr. Neto Chun.
In 2006, following Mr. Chun’s resignation, Mr. Edwardo Salam—who was then undergoing training at the Leo Bradley Library—became the new Community Librarian. Two years later, in 2008, Mr. Salam relocated out of the village, and Mr. Thomas Salam joined the Belize National Library Service family after completing his training at the Leo Bradley Library.
Mr. Thomas Salam worked diligently with the community, successfully increasing membership to 65 members within two days. By 2012, the library’s membership had grown to 204 members. In 2017, the village leaders generously allotted a parcel of land for the construction of a permanent library building.
In September 2023, Mr. Salam moved on, and Mrs. Candelaria Salam joined the Belize National Library Service and Information System (BNLSIS) team as the new Community Librarian at the Jalacte Community Library.
Programs and Activities:
The library hosts a variety of programs throughout the year, including:
- Summer Program
- Interactive Reading
- Reading Intervention
- Story Hour
- Child Stimulation Month Activities
- Women’s Month
- 16 Days of Activism Discussion
- Valentine’s Day Activities
- Arts and Crafts Sessions
- Easter Hunt
- Halloween Celebration
- Health Discussions
- Culture Day
- Mother’s Day Celebration
- Christmas Activities
Location:
The library currently operates from a room within the Jalacte Community Hurricane Shelter, until funds become available for the construction of a dedicated library building.
Opening Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.