The Philippine Embassy in Muscat recently established a Filipiniana library/reading room to enhance the country's image and goodwill there by opening it to the local community.
The library likewise hopes to create a deeper awareness and appreciation of Philippine culture and heritage among the Filipino community in Oman, especially the young people. The library contains a collection of books on Philippine history, arts and culture, literature, religion, economy, government, and others.
While the ultimate goal is to have an electronic library (eLibrary), which will be linked to similar institutions in the Philippines, the Embassy is trying to raise a sizeable collection of books and other printed materials by inviting donations from various foundations and organizations.
During his official trip to the Philippines to attend the Regional Consultation Meeting for Middle East and African countries' Heads of Posts, Ambassador Joselito A. Jimeno campaigned for the Embassy's 'Donate a Book' project, where he was able to gather at least 100 titles for the Filipiniana library.
The University Library of the University of the Philippines Diliman, National Historical Commission, National Commission for Culture and the Arts and Ayala Foundation's Filipinas Heritage Library were among the book donors.