The Malta Library and Information Association (MaLIA) is urging the government to build a Cultural Centre in place of the ruins of the Royal Opera House in Valletta.

MaLIA is proposing that this Cultural Centre includes a state-of-the-art modern public library that will provide all the modern services and facilities that are provided by other public libraries in major cities across all Europe and other parts of the world.

“There is no doubt that such a location would be ideal to offer the best possible services to users and entice new users to visit the place. MaLIA is of the opinion that the current location of the Central Public Library is not considered ideal in terms of accessibility and safety, especially for children and young adults after sunset.” the association said.

“MaLIA’s vision, based on existing best practices abroad, is that this new Cultural Centre will become a landmark in Valletta.”

The Cultural Centre will compliment the various initiatives being taken to foster the love for culture, provide the Maltese citizens with opportunities for lifelong learning and provide an environment for informal learning and enjoyment.

As part of its campaign in favour of this project, MaLIA has also launched an online petition to gather support from people who believe that this project should be carried out and which can be found on www.malia-malta.org.