# Elevated Micro-Libraries This Library is Made up Up Ice Cream Cartons By Mishal Omar | Published 2016-07-12 | Updated 2016-07-15 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/microlibrary References: [trendhunter](http://www.trendhunter.com/trends/futuristic-bikes) & [shau.nl](http://www.shau.nl/en/project/30) This micro-library in Bima, Indonesia was designed to improve literacy in the middle class and poor neighborhoods it is close to. The micro-library offers activities and learning programs that are organized by the charity 'Pocket for the Poor' and eventually it will be local people who organize the structure of the lessons. The library was built to be elevated to protect the pre-existing stage it is built atop from the rain and sun. The designers have created a cool environment without having to use air-conditioning by using large plastic ice cream bins to make up the walls and offer cross-ventilation. The building even has a a subtle message embedded in the ice cream bins in Indonesian, which translates to "books are the windows to the world." This micro-library looks modern and stands out in the neighborhood while simultaneously using "[green design](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/taichung-green)" to create a learning space for children. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.4/10 - Popularity: 43% | Activity: 20% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) > [Eco Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/ecoarchitecture) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Micro-libraries:** Creating more micro-libraries in urban areas to increase literacy and provide an alternative to traditional libraries. - **Green Design:** Innovative environmentally responsible design using materials like ice cream bins to create sustainable libraries and other community spaces. - **Localized Learning:** Encouraging communities to organize and teach educational programs to empower locals and foster a love for learning. ### Who This Affects Most - **Library Services:** Creating innovative library design and services that cater to the needs of urban communities, especially those in underserved areas. - **Education Services:** Developing educational programs and services that assist in increased literacy rates, encourage community participation, and promote literacy in children. - **Green Building Materials:** Pioneering the use of sustainable materials such as plastic ice cream bins in building design to improve building efficiency and reduce waste. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Memory-Grounded School Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rahmah-library.md) - [Temporary Translucent Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/la-liberia.md) - [Open-Air Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ikea-billyotheque.md) - [Perforated Shadow-Casting Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mariams-library.md) - [Arched Opening Village Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pkinception.md) - [Wood-Wrapped Contemporary Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/graded-school-library.md) - [Mobile Reading Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/library-of-us.md) - [Children's Story-Inspired Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/western-academy.md) - [Mushroom-Shaped Village Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mushroom-library.md)