Bonaire Public Library Nominated for Positive Government Award After Year of Growth and Renewal

KRALENDIJK – The Public Library in Bonire has been nominated for the title Most Positive Government Organization of the Year at the BIDA Awards. The nomination follows a year marked by major developments in which the library has transformed into a modern, accessible community hub for the entire island.

In March 2025, the library moved into its new building on Kaya Amsterdam, an important step in its transition toward becoming a full-fledged community library. The new location offers more space and facilities that match the broader social role the library now fulfills. The modern interior—designed with strong attention to Bonaire’s identity—includes a children’s area, a youth zone, a MakerSpace, study and meeting rooms, and flexible workspaces. The concept is intended to make reading, learning, creating, and meeting accessible to everyone.

The impact was immediately visible: in the first weeks after the opening, thousands of visitors passed through the doors and hundreds of new members signed up—almost as many as in an entire normal year. Schools and community organizations quickly embraced the new library as well.

The Bonaire Public Library team is widely appreciated for its warm, welcoming approach and clear vision. With programs for children, youth, adults, and schools—and with continuous attention to digital skills and cultural participation—the library consistently demonstrates its commitment to all residents of the island.

Vote

Residents wishing to support the library in its nomination can cast their vote via the BIDA Awards website: www.bidawards.nl.