In the Reading List numbers: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, and 13 are Bangladeshi authors.

Review by Opshori Nondona

Forget the hushed reverence of traditional libraries. Sister Library Bangladesh throbs with a different kind of energy – a vibrant, bookish buzz inspired by the groundbreaking mobile library and artwork dreamt up by artist Aqui Thami in Mumbai. Here, the focus isn’t on dusty tomes collecting cobwebs, but on cultivating a space where women can celebrate literature, unleash their inner wordsmiths, and connect through the magic of storytelling. The Goethe-Institut Bangladesh’s commitment to cultural exchange and HerStory Foundation’s dedication to empowering women provide the fertile ground for this unique sisterhood to blossom.

The Pink Shelf: A Literary Paradise for Women

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a sight that wouldn’t be out of place in a literary wonderland – the “Pink Shelf.” This isn’t just a random smattering of books; it’s a curated haven dedicated entirely to female authors. It’s a bold statement, a deliberate focus that ensures women see themselves reflected in the stories they devour.

The Pink Shelf isn’t some afterthought, either. A dedicated team curates the collection with care, selecting works that resonate with the lives and experiences of Bangladeshi women. Social issues, personal journeys of self-discovery, and the power of female expression are just a few of the threads woven into this carefully crafted collection of stories.

Beyond Borrowing: Discussing, Debating, and Building Sisterhood

Sister Library Bangladesh goes way beyond the traditional library experience. Sure, borrowing books is encouraged, but the true magic happens in the facilitated discussions that follow. Published female authors, acting as your literary “elder sisters,” guide reading circles, creating safe spaces for participants to delve deeper into the stories. It’s here that the magic happens – exploring how the narratives connect to their own lives, fostering empathy, shared experiences, and a powerful sense of sisterhood.

Imagine a virtual gathering buzzing with women cheering each other on as they finish books from the Pink Shelf, swapping recommendations, and sparking lively online discussions. Sister Library even throws in engaging reading challenges focused on this curated collection. These challenges not only broaden participants’ literary horizons but also strengthen the bonds within the sisterhood.

A Catalyst for Aspiring Women Writers

In a Bangladeshi literary landscape where opportunities for women can be limited, Sister Library Bangladesh stands out as a champion for change. It empowers aspiring female writers by providing the resources and mentorship they need to thrive. Workshops led by established authors offer invaluable insights on the craft, character development, and navigating the publishing world (which, let’s be honest, can be a bit of a jungle sometimes). Participants receive constructive feedback on their work, fostering a sense of camaraderie and replacing isolation with a supportive network of peers.

More Than Just Reading: A Platform for Powerful Voices

Sister Library Bangladesh is so much more than your average book club. It’s a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, a vibrant celebration of female voices, and a nurturing ground for a sisterhood that empowers women to write their own stories. Here, women don’t just read stories, they become the stories themselves. Sister Library Bangladesh provides a platform for these powerful voices to be heard, not just within the confines of the community, but within the ever-evolving landscape of Bangladeshi literature.

Reviewer Bio: “South Asian Story Weaver. My adventures unfold on bustling streets and through vibrant pages. I travel across Bangladesh (and beyond!), witnessing the strength and resilience of women. Their stories ignite a fire within me, fueling my writing and my love for South Asian literature and mythology. From fierce goddesses to historical heroines, these narratives celebrate the power of women. When I’m not exploring new places or lost in a book, I’m sharing these tales of empowerment, hoping to ignite a love for the voices of South Asian women.” – Opshori Nondona

Reviewer titles: “The product of three generations of female artists” by Ophsori Nondona, December 2021.

Curator of the #BangladeshiLitMonth at Global Literature in Libraries Initiative:

Erin Wilson currently works as a Teacher Librarian at International School Dhaka, Bangladesh and has worked internationally for 10 years in the following countries; China, India, and now Bangladesh. She has vast experience working in diverse cultures from Native American students to inner-city students and the international community. Her other passion lies in studying Asian dances. Currently she is focused on Odissi classical dance, and uses this dance vocabulary for storytelling in the library to actively engage children. It’s never boring in the library. 

You can follow the school where she works, International School Dhaka Instagram: @ isd_library

Opinions expressed in posts on this site are the individual author’s and are not indicative of the views of Global Literature in Libraries Initiative.