LIBRARIES WITHOUT BOOKS – A CULTURAL DISGRACE IN HERZEGOVINA

On the occasion of the Librarians’ Day of the Republic of Srpska, librarians from municipalities across Herzegovina gathered at the National Library of Trebinje, emphasizing that libraries are the pillars of every local community — guardians of cultural heritage, places of gathering, and key actors in education and social development.

PHOTO: Trebinje Live

The event served as an opportunity for librarians to present the work and activities of their institutions, but also to highlight the numerous challenges they face. They expressed gratitude to their colleagues from the Trebinje Public Library for their continuous professional and technical support, and voiced hope that such cooperation will continue in the future.

However, participants stressed one long-standing issue that continues to burden smaller communities — the lack of consistent and adequate book procurement. Librarians from neighboring Herzegovinian municipalities warned that funds for purchasing new titles are either insufficient or completely absent.

This situation directly affects the quality of services libraries can provide to local residents, especially children and young people. Some libraries go through an entire year without purchasing a single new book, while others rely solely on donations to expand their collections.

None of the libraries in Herzegovina, except for the National Library of Trebinje, can afford to send their librarians to the annual Belgrade Book Fair — one of the most important cultural events in the region.

The Librarians’ Day of the Republic of Srpska, marked each year on October 9, was established as recognition of librarians and their contribution to preserving and promoting knowledge, culture, and literacy. Yet, for many in Herzegovina, this year’s celebration served as a stark reminder of how neglected the cultural foundations of society have become.