After a beautiful boat ride across Lake Atitlan, John and I arrived at the library in San Juan la Laguna (population 12,000), Rija'tzuul Na'ooj, greeted by the library's director, Isreal Quic. The library began in 1990 as a community initiative and in 2005, moved to its current location, a bright and spacious building decorated with colorful murals. In building the library, the community and municipality paid for 70% of the cost, with the Riecken Foundation contributing 30%. Community members not only helped to fund the structure, they also labored to build the library. 
Currently the library has 7,000 books, five computers with internet access, and wifi (paid for by Isreal). Additional library resources include a television, a DVD player, and projector. Luis tells us that the library often shows movies, soccer games, and important election/news coverage, projected on a blank wall. The sale of popcorn during these activities helps raise funds to purchase books at the National Book Fair in Guatemala City. This year the library was able to purchase 83 books, an important step in assuring that the library collection meets the needs of the community. 
During our visit, a local volunteer was helping children with a weaving project, providing a creative and educational opportunity during the two month school vacation. Luis tells us the community uses the library for many purposes -- adults come for community meetings, young mothers attend parenting classes offered by the Health Center, teachers come for training sessions, and political candidates participate in public debates. He also tells us, among children and youth, the planned activities are the top library attraction, followed by computers. Statistics for the month of March, 2011 reflect continued community support and interest, with 830 children (0-12), 870 youth (13-21) and 267 adults using the library in some capacity.Isreal Quic, Director
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