(This article was first published in January 2018.)
In Ankara, garbage collectors transform waste into culture: the Çankaya library
In the Çankaya district of Ankara, an inspiring initiative has emerged: garbage collectors have created a unique library, from books intended to be thrown away. This community project made it possible to breathe new life into nearly 4,750 worksfound in city trash cans during garbage collection. Novels, scientific works, children’s stories… This diverse collection testifies to the potential hidden in objects that we believe to be worthless.
The library is located in a former factory, now rehabilitated, where even the decoration follows the logic of recycling. The lamps, for example, were made from old copper pipes recovered from waste. This place, open to the public, is particularly popular with the garbage collectors themselves who take advantage of this reading haven during their breaks and sometimes even at night.
An initiative with a social and solidarity dimension
This project goes beyond the simple recovery of waste: it embodies a new way of thinking about solidarity and access to culture. The library quickly received donations of books from all over the country, demonstrating true collective momentum. Residents and institutions see this library as a concrete way to fight against waste and promote reading for all.
After classifying the books into 17 categoriesthe garbage collectors of Çankaya also launched a traveling library. This project allows books to be transported to local schools in order to raise awareness among young people about reading and recycling. The initiative thus paves the way for reflection on cultural inclusiveness by ensuring that even those who do not have access to resources can benefit from these literary treasures.
Other similar initiatives in Türkiye
The Çankaya model has inspired other actions across the country by demonstrating that access to culture can be democratized through solidarity:
The bus station library in Izmir : at Izmir Bus Station, a library was installed in 2020 for travelers. Passengers can borrow books while waiting for their bus and the majority of books come from donations.
The “Kitap Hediye Et” (“Give a Book”) project: this national program encourages citizens to donate books to schools, prisons or community centers, particularly in underserved regions. An initiative which makes it possible to overcome the difficulties of access to culture in certain parts of the country.
Bookcrossing in Istanbul: in Istanbul, book boxes appeared in neighborhoods like Kadıköy and Beşiktaş. Everyone can drop off or borrow a book for free, allowing books to circulate freely in the city and reach new readers.
These initiatives show that Turkey is adopting an innovative approach to promoting reading while promoting recycling and community engagement practices.
A model for other cities?
With limited resources but a strong will it is possible to give new life to forgotten objects and to create spaces for sharing and knowledge. By making culture accessible to all, the garbage collectors of Çankaya illustrate the importance of small actions and the positive impact that local commitment can have on the community.
Let’s share our stories!
Are you aware of any other initiatives in Türkiye where discarded items have been reused for the good of the community? Do not hesitate to share your discoveries with us in comments or by email [email protected]. Let’s highlight these inspiring projects that instill a model of solidarity and ecological commitment.
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