ASSABIL is a non-governmental organization founded in 1997 to promote reading and free access to culture. By creating public libraries as non-sectarian and open spaces for cultural exchange and providing access to information and reading, ASSABIL filled a void in postwar Lebanon. In cooperation with the Ile-de-France Region, ASSABIL reached an agreement with the Municipality of Beirut to establish a network of municipal public libraries. ASSABIL operates three municipal public libraries in Beirut and a mobile library (KOTOBUS) to serve public schools and non-formal education centers in remote areas. ASSABIL welcomes people of all ages, religions, and socio-economic and educational backgrounds to enjoy their services that include: free access to the three municipal public libraries of Beirut, a network of 20 public libraries across Lebanon, community outreach through a mobile library that visits public schools and NGOs serving underprivileged children, regular cultural and educational activities in Beirut, resource material and activity toolkits targeting librarians and educators, a resource and training center for professionals in public libraries, schools, cultural centers, and community-based organizations, and consultancy services for individuals and entities interested in establishing libraries.