Malaysia’s First Free Public Library Opens its Doors in a Mall!

By Archana Patrick

The latest buzz in the Petaling Jaya neighbourhood is its first free public library located in Jaya One mall.

The 5,000 sq ft library launched recently by Bukit Gasing assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran, houses over 5,000 books and other facilities including free WiFi, seminar and reading areas, computers and even printing services!

The registration fee to become a member is also absolutely free of charge.

Rajiv, who is also a member of the Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) board, called on more libraries to be made available in shopping malls and MRT stations due to the easy accessibility.

He remarked that it is more cost effective to house a library in an existing building such as a mall rather than the government having to purchase a new building for the same purpose.

He further encouraged the public to donate books and other reading materials to PPAS for distribution to public libraries in Selangor.

The library has received steady support since opening its doors in October 2018, and to date over 5,000 people have visited the library. It remains popular with parents as they find the library a safe and conducive environment for their children to spend time while parents run household errands, as noted by Jaya One Sdn Bhd marketing and communication department head Ellis Teh.

If you are in the PJ area, head on over to 100–P2.003, The School, Block J, Jaya One, No 72A, Jalan Universiti, Section 13, Petaling Jaya. The library is open daily from 10 am to 7pm and is closed on public holidays.

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