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The most recent project of the Instituto Ipanema de Desenvolvimento Social, named “Ciranda da Leitura” [Reading Merry-go-Round], was recommended for the 2006 Assis Chateaubriand Award. “Ciranda da Leitura” is a mobile library that visits the poorer neighborhoods taking the magic and pleasure of reading to people of all ages. A van has been adapted to accommodate colorful chests full of books. There are over 1,100 titles of various styles such as books for research, children’s and teenagers’ books and also books for adults. When the library stops at a previously established place, immediately readers gather around it. The chests are placed within their reach, as are mats and cushions for them to sit on, and even a tent to protect them from the sun. The purpose of the library is to form groups of readers, encouraging new participants who will end up liking to read books and will start going to libraries”, said Washington Luiz Alves Rodrigues, president of Ipanema Coffees. ‘Ciranda da Leitura’ visits one neighborhood during a day of the week in the evenings, from 06:00 p.m. to 09:00 p.m., attracting approximately 70 people at a time. In 2005, Instituto Ipanema’s Education in Action Project was one of the winners. The selected regional social projects are considered of high social importance. Social actions have always been a significant part of the company’s policy. Ipanema now leads more than 10 social programs.
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