Jericho inaugurates a new public library – USAID press release/Non-UN document

Jericho Inaugurates a New Public Library

JERICHO, West Bank – A new state-of- the-art library was opened to the public yesterday in Jericho. Prime Minister Ahmad Quraya, U.S Consul General Jacob Walles, and USAID Mission Director James Bever spoke at the inauguration ceremony, which the Mayor of Jericho Hassan Saleh opened with welcoming remarks.

The library, which cost $300,000 to build, is equipped with the most up-to-date computers and a digital scanner. The lighting and air conditioning were specially designed to enhance reading conditions. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) contributed $262,500 towards building the facility, while community contributions contributed to the remaining costs.

The construction of the Jericho Public Library began in 2003 and was implemented by ANERA in coordination with the Municipality of Jericho. The library was built in the shape of an open book and offers modern and comfortable facilities for the residents of Jericho to enjoy literature, find information, and receive opportunities for continued education.

The library was built under USAID's Job Opportunities through Basic Services (JOBS) program, which aims to create employment opportunities in the West Bank and Gaza. The project created more than 5000 working days for the people of Jericho and the near-by villages.

USAID has spent more than $1.7 billion to combat poverty, create jobs, improve education, build roads and water systems, construct and equip medical clinics, and promote good governance in the West Bank and Gaza during the last decade.