I visited the Hongo Children’s Library in Hongo-cho, Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture.
Since opening in 2001 as a publicly funded, privately operated library, it has been cherished and run by the community for 25 years. With its charming log cabin-like exterior, stepping inside greets you with the gentle scent of wood and countless children’s books. The moment I entered, I felt incredibly at ease.
I arrived a little past 1:00 PM. Staff were busy preparing to welcome children stopping by after nursery school or school, as well as getting ready for a festival scheduled for the weekend. I also saw someone who had come to borrow picture books for their grandchild.
As I listened to stories about running the library, the preparations leading up to its opening, and the deep involvement of Professor Takashi Ota, children returning from daycare entered the library saying, “I’m home.” The library’s operations are entirely managed by volunteers, whom the children affectionately call ‘Grandpa’ and “Grandma.” I felt an indescribable sense of comfort in this library where casual exchanges like “I’m home” and “Welcome back” flowed naturally.
Before I knew it, I found myself naturally joining in the children’s play. It truly felt like a safe place where even an unfamiliar “uncle” could be approached easily. I got so caught up in the fun that I ended up staying for over two hours.
This sense of security stems from being nurtured within the community. It isn’t something created overnight; I believe nearly 25 years of accumulated time has cultivated this atmosphere. Creating safe spaces for children is one of my own goals, and this experience taught me anew the importance of nurturing and developing such spaces over a long period, rather than through short-term efforts.
I am deeply grateful to the librarian, the staff who assisted me, and the children themselves.
