First Arab audio book library launched in Jordan

The first Arabic public audio book library has been launched in Jordan. The library features a large number of audio books distributed on small portable devices, in the first initiative of its kind in the Arab world.

"This is the first step of its kind in Jordan and the Arab world. Its goal is to promote reading by listening to audio books, in an innovative platform that can reach a broad segment of society and keep up with technological advancement," said Alaa Suleiman, CEO and co-founder of Masmoo' for Audio Knowledge.

Masmoo' is Arabic for "heard".

"The portable audio devices are small and lightweight. They come preloaded with Arabid audio books. They operate by rechargeable battery and can accomodate 10 hours of audio books," she told The New Arab.

The audio books are particularly helpful for children, illiterate individuals and people with impaired vision, Suleiman added.

The devices are highly portable and do not need an internet connection or smartphones.

The initiative was launched in collaboration with Jordan's Abdul-Hamid Shouman Foundation in Jordan. The foundation is known for its work in promoting art, culture and literature and maintains public libraries in the kingdom.

Ghaleb Masoud, director of the foundation, told The New Arab the audio books can be borrowed at the foundation's public library. As a next step, the books will be made available to schools, universities, and public and private libraries in Jordan and the region.

Atef Mohammad (21 years) told The New Arab: "I love reading books. But sometimes, I am too busy to read. I love the idea of audio books. I will borrow them to listen to them during my commute from university."

For her part, Jordanian Maha Abdullah (55 years) said: "I used to read a lot in my youth, but now my vision is weak. I think the idea of audio books is great. I hope I will find in the collection books that interest me."

For more information, visit http://www.masmoo3.com/