The world’s largest floating book fair Logos Hope docked in Muscat on Friday. The ship, which has 5,000 titles on board, opened its doors to the public at Port Sultan Qaboos, after setting sail from Manama, Bahrain. Hundreds of people flocked to see the ship within hours of dropping anchor in the country. The ship, which came to Oman last in 2013, will be open to the public till July 22 from 4 pm to 10 pm.
Logos Hope presents an exceptional opportunity for book enthusiasts of all ages to immerse themselves in the exploration of books available on board. Many titles in Arabic are available for discounted price.
Logos Hope boasts an extensive collection of books encompassing diverse genres such as literature, science, mathematics, children's stories, self-development, and culinary arts. Owned by the German charitable organisation "Good Books for All," the ship embarks on an annual voyage, visiting numerous ports worldwide. Its recent ports of call included the UAE, Libya, and Iraq. The primary objective of this remarkable floating library is to foster global cultural exchange and promote the love of reading.
Spanning an impressive length of 132 metres, the book ship is managed by over 400 volunteers from over 65 countries. Upon entry, visitors were shown a short film highlighting the ship's history and its significant visits to renowned ports worldwide. Interactive presentations are also conducted to acquaint the public with this magnificent endeavour. To date, Logos Hope has reached over 480 ports in 150 countries and has welcomed more than 49 million visitors during its 13-year journey. The ship proudly upholds the slogan "Exchanging knowledge, providing assistance, and inspiring hope" at every port of call.
Joel Benicourt, Logos Hope’s project Coordinator, said, “Logos Hopes ship sails around the world with the aim of sharing knowledge, help and hope.” Admission to board the Logos Hope is priced at 500 baisa per person, with free entry for children aged 12 and below. The ship offers dedicated reading hours, and visitors can buy books, stationery, and souvenirs. Additionally, attendees can relish in concerts, theatrical performances, cultural and artistic programmes, as well as enjoy the ship's onboard café and restaurant.
All visitors are required to present their resident ID cards. Individuals under 18-years-old and children must be accompanied by an adult.
This is the third time that the floating book fair is visiting Oman after its last visits to in 2011 and 2013.
The ship will sail to Salalah on July 27 and will be stationed there until August 3. After that she will be in Seychelles from August 10 to 17 before heading to Mombasa in Kenya
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