Safaet Raihan Shihab is a name synonymous with social responsibility. Alongside his studies, he tirelessly works for the underprivileged in society. With the support of well-wishers, he strives to provide assistance in all fundamental human needs: education, healthcare, food, clothing, and shelter. The seeds of Shihab’s social work were sown within his own family. After completing primary school and advancing to high school, he began his social activities with his village friends.
In 2017, he joined ‘Shopnojatri Foundation’, a voluntary social organization approved by the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. This platform allowed his humanitarian efforts to expand significantly. Currently, he serves on the organization’s central committee.
Shihab dreams of enriching people not only with food or clothes but also mentally. He is working on a unique initiative to turn a book-averse society into a book-loving one. Under the umbrella of the Shopnojatri Foundation, he leads as the Chief Coordinator of the ‘Shopnojatri Obosor Pathagar’ (Shopnojatri Leisure Library).
The concept for the ‘Leisure Library’ began in 2020 to transform the long waiting periods at bus counters—a frequent source of annoyance for travelers—into moments of joy. To date, 16 such leisure libraries have been established across the country, spanning various bus counters, salons, and union parishads.
These libraries boast a diverse collection, including books on history, heritage, novels, short stories, self-improvement, poetry, science fiction, thrillers, essays, travelogues, and children’s books.
Shihab emphasizes, “A connection with books must be established for the readers. If we can inspire the youth and young adults towards reading, the nation will be enlightened. I am moving forward with the pledge to spread this movement across the entire country.”
