Great Expectations as CORA Library & Resource Centre Opens Today in Lagos

Yinka Olatunbosun

The buzz out there is that CORA—an acronym for the Committee for Relevant Art—is launching an exciting start to its 2024 culture season. The highly anticipated event will be marked by the grand opening of the CORA Library & Resource Centre, a treasure trove nestled within the vibrant cultural hub of Lagos City’s Freedom Park on Lagos Island, which has Professor Wole Soyinka as its special guest of honour. This dynamic space, which promises to be a haven for artists, art enthusiasts, and knowledge seekers alike, boasts a diverse collection of resources.

The flagship library, which, according to CORA’s programme officer, Ifunanya Ottih, opens today by 4 p.m. at CORA Ville in Freedom Park, will be a focal point for exploration, inspiration, and creativity within the local arts community. A testament to CORA’s commitment to fostering a rich cultural environment and supporting the growth of the arts scene in Lagos, the inauguration of this unique facility sets the stage for a hub for cultural conversations and artistic collaborations in the city.

Situated within the captivating expanse of Freedom Park, specifically in the CORAVille precinct, the CORA Library and Resource Centre (L&RC) stands out as a place designed to cater to the diverse interests of the public, with a particular focus on students and young individuals. The primary objective is to foster the belief that education serves as the pivotal catalyst for both illumination and empowerment, all in pursuit of national development and the nurturing of human potential.

A plethora of engaging literary events will be hosted at the library, including the renowned CORA BOOKTrek, which serves as a platform for authors to directly engage with their readers as part of the Literacy Campaign initiative. Furthermore, the LR&C will regularly organise workshops, seminars, and other enriching activities related to writing, reading, and public speaking, among others, all geared towards enhancing literacy skills. The centre will also provide a haven for fellow artistic organisations that share a common vision of promoting literacy and enriching the collective consciousness of the nation.

This exceptional endeavour has garnered support from numerous organisations and individuals, most notably Freedom Park, Chief Kayode Aderinokun (Chair of the CORA Trustee), esteemed CORA Board members, devoted subscribers and volunteers, and the invaluable backing of the Hawthornden Foundation. Additionally, generous contributions from authors, publishers, bookstores, and the general public have played a crucial role in making this project a reality.