Find out more about the world’s largest floating library, the Logos Hope, which houses 600,000 books

Reported by Chen Tzu-yin / Keelung

The world’s largest floating library — the MV Logos Hope — arrived at Keelung Port in Taiwan on the 22nd. Carrying over 5,000 types and 600,000 books, the ship officially opened its doors to the public on the 23rd. With its comfortable and spacious interior, many visitors took their children aboard during the weekend to read and shop for books.ETtoday EBC News Cloud also captured exclusive interior footage, giving those who haven’t visited yet a chance to take a look.


▲ The world’s largest floating library — the Logos Hope — houses 600,000 books. It arrived in Taiwan on the 22nd and opened to the public on the 23rd. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

“Bringing knowledge,help and hope.”The Logos Hope is operated by the international charity organization GBA Ships, registered in Germany. The organization, through its previous ships — the Logos, the MV Doulos, and now the MV Logos Hope — has visited over 150 countries and welcomed 43 million visitors worldwide.The purpose of the Logos Hope’s global voyages is to bring education, help, and hope. Its largest book section houses over 5,000 types and 600,000 books in total. Here, you can find children's books, novels, cookbooks, foreign language books, and Chinese publications. The cozy and relaxing environment allows visitors to immerse themselves in the joy of reading.Lloyd Nicholas, the leader of the Logos Hope, said that every time they arrive in a country, they try to negotiate with local booksellers to secure the best prices for the books sold on board. Therefore, buying your favorite Chinese book on the Logos Hope is quite convenient.

Read more >>>Brave Taiwanese girl raises funds to travel the world on the floating library “Logos Hope”


▲ On the Logos Hope, knowledge is one of the main purposes. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

 
▲ In addition to a wide selection of English books, Chinese books are also available here at affordable prices. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)


▲ Thousands of visitors flocked to the ship on the first day of opening by noon. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

 
▲ The ship also features many “exhibits” about Bible stories, telling the story of Jesus Christ. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

Since many visitors come with their children, the Logos Hope has a simulated ship’s wheel where kids can experience being a captain. There is also a virtual cabin that shows what living spaces are like for the international volunteers aboard. After browsing books, visitors can relax with a cup of coffee at the international café or try the “best ice cream,” as Lloyd Nicholas says: “I often ask people why they come aboard, and aside from the books, ice cream is what they most frequently mention. Some say this is the best ice cream they’ve ever had.”Many visitors also tell Lloyd Nicholas that they enjoy seeing the ship’s crew of volunteers from 60 different countries. Experiencing different cultures makes them happy and gives them a sense of love and hope aboard the ship.


▲ Volunteers from 60 countries aboard the ship are also one of its highlights. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

 
 
▲ The simulated ship’s wheel lets children have a try, while the cabins show what the volunteers’ living quarters are like. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

 
▲ The international café is said to serve the “best ice cream.” (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

The ship also has a very special space dedicated to AIDS awareness. Visitors must wear headphones in this area and, through the environment and audio guide, imagine themselves as someone living with HIV, experiencing their situation emotionally. It’s a unique experience quite different from just reading books.

The MV Doulos also visited Taiwan in 2009. Although it had to head to Hong Kong shortly after due to mechanical issues, 60,000 people visited the ship at Keelung Port alone.Lloyd Nicholas said that preparations for each country visit begin two years in advance because the Logos Hope not only brings books but also tangible assistance. They connect with local organizations serving vulnerable communities. For example, during this visit to Taiwan, volunteers will interact with and provide services at Keelung Prison, the Rebirth Association, the Sunshine Foundation, and institutions for autistic children.

The Logos Hope will be docked at Berth 4 West of Keelung Port from August 23 to September 9, then at Kaohsiung Port from September 13 to 24, and at Anping Port from September 26 to 29. It will stay in Taiwan for over a month before continuing its mission to Singapore.

Keelung Port boarding hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday: 10:00–21:30
Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday: 14:00–21:30
(A NT$20 cleaning fee applies per person; children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult)

English Café:
Time: August 26 (Tuesday) 19:30–21:00
The registration fee is 50 RMB, and during the event period you can interact with baristas and crew members in the café to practice English.

International Night:
Time: September 5 (Friday) 18:00–19:30 / 20:30–22:00
The registration fee is 50 RMB, and you can enjoy a variety of song and dance performances, such as Korea’s fan dance, South Africa’s gumboot dance, the Philippines’ bamboo dance, and an African choir.