THE new American Corner, Suva which is in the Suva City Carnegie Library is a haven for learning for children.
The corner which is open to everyone free of charge, offers educational, technological and information resources to anyone interested in pursuing their passion.
The space has many learning kits that children can take advantage of, for example the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) field.
This teaches children who visit the library STEAM concept in an entertaining and engaging way.
Gospel High School Year 9 student, Melanie Virisila Tukana said she was excited to be part of the opening of the American Corner, Suva.
The 14-year-old said it was important to read and see the American corner with all its resources at the Suva library was great.
“This is my first time at the Suva City Carnegie Library and it will not be my last,” she said.
“I hope I can come to the library now, especially seeing the learning materials at the American corner space.”
She said she will share the information about the space with her family, particularly her two younger siblings so they can enjoy the resources provided there.
Yat Sen Secondary School Year 12 student Kian Wendt said it was the second time that he was visiting the library.
“I was enlightened by the speeches today (June 21) and the resources available at the American corner,” he said.
“Reading a book is rare nowadays and I’m sure this would help students develop their skills in reading, writing and speaking.
“Also the library serves as a good environment for studying. At home it can be distracting and this space is great for studying.
“The space that has been provided, the donated resources and the free internet connection makes it more convenient for children to study.”
“My advice to other children is for them to engage in reading as it can help open up many career pathways in the future.”
Throughout the year the American Corner, Suva will host programs for school groups.
This was highlighted by the United States of America’s Ambassador to Fiji, Marie Damour at the opening of the American Corner, Suva space.
She said the embassy will be working with teachers and school administrators to design programs that will address students’ interests and needs.
Ministry of Education’s acting permanent secretary, Timoci Bure during the opening said the corner will house information which will enable the library users to learn more about the US as a nation.
“We can say that this brings us a bit closer to home since there is an opportunity for us to get acquainted with the nation through the resources that will be made available at the American corner.
Local Government Minister, Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa thanked the U.S Government for their support.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the U.S. Government for their support in expanding reading options and promoting a culture of literacy,” he said.
“As a public library, the Suva City Council Carnegie Library is open to all, offering a diverse range of resources to cater to the community’s needs.
“The addition of these new resources will complement the existing collection, featuring an extensive assortment of fiction and non-fiction books, research materials dating back to the 1950s, and local media prints.”
The American Corner, Suva was opened by Mr Nalumisa, Mr Bure and Ms Damour on June 21.