Sister Library, led by Indigenous artist aqui Thami, is a vibrant art initiative that goes beyond the conventional concept of a library. Rooted in the celebration of women, it intertwines literature with community involvement to nurture diverse and inclusive connections. As an evolving and generative artwork, Sister Library is a space dedicated to celebrating female creativity—housing works by women writers, artists, and zine makers.
After its first stops at the Lakmahal Community Library in Colombo, the Alliance Française de Kandy and the JDA Perera Gallery in Colombo,the Sister Library is now heading to Jaffna. From 30 August to 27 September 2025, it will be accessible to the public at Kälam – A Space for Cultural Encounters in Jaffna. For the opening weekend, we have planned a range of activities, especially for schoolchildren, along with a workshop at the University and further exciting events, we will share more details soon.
Sister Library is being realized in partnership with Everystory, an organisation committed to amplifying underrepresented voices through literature and storytelling.
As part of the collaboration, Everystory has contributed important Sri Lankan writing to the library’s collection. Additionally, the Goethe-Institut and Alliance Française have expanded the selection by adding feminist literature from Germany and France, translated into English.
The project is funded by the Franco-German Cultural Fund. The Fund was set up in 2003 to mark the 40th anniversary of the Élysée Treaty of friendship between France and West Germany and it promotes Franco-German cooperation by providing support for cultural and artistic projects.
