Apart from its role as a space to help people get into the reading habit, the nook has turned into a daily hangout spot for residents living nearby. Ms Wong, a music teacher, pops in at least four times a day to chat with her neighbours.
What started out as a nook for books now features a table tennis table, a few guitars and a piano – all donations from visitors and residents. A retired table tennis coach and some helpful residents can be found teaching anyone who is interested to learn to play the instruments or the game.
Ms Wong said: “This has grown to become bigger than I could ever have hoped. It’s no longer just a library – it has made the block into a kampung.
“Neighbours I have never spoken to before now call me sister and sayang.” Sayang is a Malay term of endearment which means “darling”.
“Some of my neighbours told me they never knew the names of who they have been living beside for decades. Now, everyone is like a family. We even have a WhatsApp group chat where we share news and any updates on our library.”
Ms Wong’s labour of love has had its share of hiccups. For instance, in its early days, a few books were taken and never returned. A ukulele that was donated was stolen.
She said: “Although my heart ached a bit, the feelings of disappointment did not last long because with every book taken, more were donated the next day.”
When the ukulele was taken, residents donated another two to replace it.
