Quake-hit library gradually returning to normal in Kumamoto

Uki, Kumamoto Pref. – The earthquake-hit municipal library in the city of Uki, Kumamoto Prefecture, is moving step by step toward reopening after closing late last month.

A mobile library, part of Uki City Library, has already resumed its rounds in the city again, bringing smiles to nursery school children. Its service was halted following the July 28 quake, which registered a shindo 7, the highest level on the country’s seismic intensity scale, in parts of Kumamoto.

“Though it will take time, we hope that life will gradually return to normal,” said Toshimitsu Sakai, 48, head of the library.

When Sakai rushed to the library shortly after the temblor, he found that the ground around the library had subsided, while windows had shattered, sections of walls had crumbled, and books lay scattered.

The library building also houses an art museum and stands next to Picture Book House for Kids, which has a collection of more than 10,000 picture books. On the lawn in front of the buildings, markets and yoga classes were held regularly.

The mobile library, part of Uki City Library, has resumed its rounds in the city again, bringing smiles to nursery school children. | JIJI

The complex was a popular spot where local people came to relax, but now, the library building is designated as a dangerous place to enter. There is no prospect for starting restoration work.

“We are sorry for being unable to open this place for reading, studying and taking a rest during the summer holiday period,” Sakai said.

Of the three branch libraries in the city, however, the Misumi branch, where damage was relatively small, has been reopened. At the Ogawa branch, fallen books have been put back on shelves.

The mobile library service was restarted on Aug. 18, visiting places including nursery schools.

At Toyokawa nursery school in the Matsubase district, the resumed service brought joy to children. “I’m happy,” and “It’s fun,” they said as they picked picture books and illustrated reference books.

“We are thankful for the service,” said Makoto Washio, 55, head of the nursery school. “Children looked uneasy because they couldn’t enjoy the everyday habit of reading books.”

Tomoo Kimura, 53, who drives the mobile library, said with a smile, “I’m happy to have delivered everyday joys, no matter how small.”

The city library receives inquiries from local people about when facilities such as the main library will reopen. Sakai said, “We will steadily do what we can so we can receive users again in proper condition.”