The ship of knowledge

THE world's biggest floating bookshop, the MV Logos Hope, is set to dock in Bahrain next month with the aim of providing a wealth of knowledge to children across the kingdom.

The ship is owned and operated by non-profit charity - GBA Ships e.V - which aims to promote international understanding through cultural exchange programmes, community service initiatives and floating book fairs.

Since setting sail from Denmark in February 2009, the 132.50m long and 21.6m wide ship has visited 49 ports in 35 countries, welcoming more than 1,330,000 visitors onboard.

It docks in Bahrain from March 3-8 and during this time, the crew of 400 volunteers, from 40 different nations, hope to connect and build bridges with all sectors of society.

Project co-ordinator Sam Kiers, 27, says that the ship's mission is to promote international understanding and worldwide education.

He said: "Our goal is to provide knowledge, help and hope to each place we visit. We very much look forward to the opportunity of providing the visiting groups from Bahrain's community an experience that they will never forget. We will be open to groups of visitors from corporate organistions to schools."

Mr Kiers added that the ship is expecting around 50,000 visitors during its five days docked in Bahrain. The visit follows a similar mission to the kingdom back in 2006 by MV Doulos which received overwhelming support.

Onboard, there are thousands of books covering a wide range of subjects, such as science, sport, hobbies, careers, cookery, the arts, philosophy, technical, dictionaries as well as a wide selection of children's books, which are on display and for sale.

Through events and programmes in each port of call, the crew and staff have the opportunity to share their experiences and culture with the local community.

In many countries the ship also provides significant humanitarian relief for people in need. This includes supplying material aid, raising awareness of health risks and donating educational literature.

Operational costs of the ship are provided by sponsorship of the crew as well as donations and corporate support.