Library of picture book in Kenbuchi

 Library of picture book in Kenbuchi

I recommend you to visit the picture book library in Kenbuchi.  “Ehon” is called “picture book” in English. Kenbuchi is a small town in Hokkaido. The population of the town is about three hundred. There are many cherry trees, a famous Alpaca Ranch, and magnificent scenery. They made picture book a symbol of their town to develop the town.

 The picture book library has four rooms

 First is the book room in the left picture. The room has enormous amount of picture book. The number is about 45,000. Visitors can read these books, lend these books, and join in reading books for children.

Second is the exhibition room. Everyone can lend this room to display their piece of artwork. It costs about 700 yen, so we can use this room with low prices.

 Third is the egg room, playroom on the left picture. There are many wooden balls and children can play in this room. It is a safe place for them and their children because the wooden balls are not small and not heavy.

Fourth is a restaurant. We can eat lunch or drink juice.  To improve the town's economy, they sell local foods.

How did Kenbuchi become popular as the picture book town?

In 1988, people who live in Kenbuchi started revitalizing the town with picture book as the symbol. The reason is Kenbuchi’s atmosphere is like that of a farm village in Europe. The art museum which exhibits original pictures from picture books is in keeping with that location. And then the exhibition of original pictures from the picture book was held in Kenbuchi for the first time.

In 1989, the picture book exhibition related to winter in Hokkaido was held. Many picture book fans who had found this event visited Kenbuchi from various towns in Hokkaido. Also, residents started the action to give more people a chance to read picture book. This town’s revitalization was introduced as a unique thing in the media. Thanks to residents’ efforts, Kebuchi was gradually known as the picture book town.

Kenbuchi’s picture book competition

Now various events are held in Kenbuchi. “Kenbuchi Ehon prize” is a one example.  Visitors select one interesting book and vote. Staff members count votes and decide on the best picture book. Anyone who visits Kenbuchi can participate in this event. In the past, “korobebaiinoni” won the first prize. This book title means I want you to fall. The main character is a little boy who has dissatisfaction with many people. We may say “It is a bad day”, “He is a nasty person”, or “I don’t want to meet him again”. However, he thinks only “I want you to fall” in his heart with a smile. This book makes us happy if we are annoyed with human relations problems.Why don’t you go to Kenbuchi?

 Yurie,Ayano                  

reference:http://ehon-yakata.com/・http://www.kembuchi-kankou.com/temp/