Seraj Library Project
Working alongside Palestinian communities to establish libraries as safe, beautiful and vibrant community centers.
All proceeds from the Ignite Hope campaign will benefit West Bank communities in the challenging year ahead.
Igniting Hope 2025
The Seraj Library Project is founded on the belief that civic education is the best route to justice, human rights and peace. We believe great libraries build great communities and that all people have the right to enjoy safe and beautiful public spaces.
There are at least 10 compelling reasons to participate in this important work. With each donation your name will be entered into a raffle for a hand-knotted 3’ x 5’ Persian carpet, donated the Minasian Rug Company and valued at more than $1,000. The raffle prize is a token of our appreciation for each gift, large or small, that will enable Seraj to create places and programs of hope. The winner will be randomly drawn by the Seraj Board Chair on January 1, 2025.
Seraj/Palestine Report 2024
The 2024 Annual Report from Seraj/Palestine is here! It is a fascinating read, with information about a myriad of programs and special events in Seraj’s areas of focus: community libraries, storytelling, and cultural arts. The report includes links to numerous videos like the one taken on a day when women from the Qalandia refugee camp visit the Storytelling Center. Although not all of these short films offer closed captions or subtitles, the impact of Seraj on faces young and old is illuminating.
Storytelling Marathon 2024
A Seraj tradition kicked off in early November with a "train the trainer" day for government school teachers. The marathon involves 35 schools across the governorates of Ramallah, Al-Bireh, Jerusalem, and Hebron. Throughout the month, children learned and practiced telling stories. The event culminated with 350 children competing to share the folk tales they learned with their elders. See more …
A Taste of Palestine
In November, while a sell-out crowd enjoyed musical performances, olive oil tasting, delicious food and more, some young attendees found a quiet corner at A Taste of Palestine where they were able to indulge their own creativity. Seraj thanks to all participants, sponsors, and other supporters who made this event a smashing success. See more …
13 Libraries
Seraj libraries meet the unique needs and interests of the people they serve, in partnership with Palestinian communities in rural villages and refugee camps. Seraj currently has 13 Libraires. 11 are community libraries, and 2 are centers.
Cultural Activities
Seraj’s libraries offer programs in storytelling, music, art, and special topics to preserve Palestinian culture. They also serve as safe, beautiful spaces for tutoring, lectures, yoga, and games—whatever meets the needs and dreams of the community.
Stay in Touch
Help Seraj to accomplish its mission by staying in touch and sharing the story.
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