Library in Galle Fort

The Library in the Fort of Galle was established in 1832. It is probably the oldest public library in Sri Lanka. It is lying adjacent to the Dutch Reformed Church in Church Street. The bookcases contain very special old books.

In 1988 SOS Velsen made it possible to repair the roof of the library. In the course of years -via SOS Velsen- the Public Library in Velsen has sent English books to the Fort Library. In 2006 the rooms and bookcases were renovated. In 2007 SOS Velsen donated LKR 144,000 meant for special events like theatre, lectures, street performances, etcetera, not only meant for inhabitants living in the Fort, but also for people outside the Fort. A photocopier, two computers and a printer were purchased by means of SOS Velsen as well. The present board of the library is very active in- and outside the Fort. Realization of the above-mentioned projects was made possible with co-operation of the Netherlands Alumni Association of Lanka (NAAL). All members have studied in the Netherlands. They judge proposed projects and the flow of money is going through the NAAL as well.

RESULTS
Renovation of Library building
Expanded collection of the library