Restoring libraries will help restore Beirut's history

Our readers have their say on Beirut's libraries being rebuilt, Djokovic's temper, and masks for developing countries

Geitawi public library in Beirut, Lebanon, one of the three to be restored. 

With reference to the story Bodour Al Qasimi steps in to restore three libraries damaged in Beirut explosion (September 8): Bravo. Reading opens doors. Libraries are a part of a nation's history and are responsible to a great extent for the education of its people. Good on her for helping out. It's a great initiative. I know the children of Beirut and the people over there will appreciate all the help they can get. Well done.

Angela P, Abu Dhabi

I love it. Otherwise people might never restore them since it is not a priority at the moment.

Yulia Hulia, Dubai

Free distribution of masks can help developing countries

This is with reference to Shireena Al Nowais's report Coronavirus: Social gatherings contributing to UAE's rise in Covid-19 cases (September 3). We know the use of face masks can help to fight Covid-19. Yet many citizens in developing countries do not wear them. Some wear it around the chin just to avoid a police query. Many people find it inconvenient to wear a mask because it can make breathing difficult. Perhaps a research body needs to improve the mask so that it offers protection and allows wearers to breathe comfortably.

The corporate sector could also help to research good quality masks, which improve oxygen flow. As part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives, companies could also produce masks at their costs and distribute them in small towns and villages in countries like India or the African continent.

They can even print the name of some of their products on the masks, to get some advertising mileage.

Masks are priced from Rs20 to Rs500 – that is, from about Dh1 to Dh20. In the villages of India and Africa even Rs20 is a big deal. Free distribution of masks can help people and countries fight Covid-19.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

Disqualifying Djokovic is an overreaction

I write to you regarding Steve Luckings's report Novak Djokovic: 9 times the world No 1 lost his temper during matches (September 8). The disqualification of Novak Djokovic from the US Open for hitting a line umpire with the ball is symbolic of a number of the problems the world faces.

It was a simple act of frustration and a lack of self-control that led to someone being hurt, although fortunately not seriously, and it is obvious that there was no intention to cause any harm. His apology included a realisation that he needed to consider his actions more carefully.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

Futuristic planes evoke nostalgia for school days  

This is regarding Hayley Skirka's report Flying-V: model of futuristic sustainable plane completes maiden flight (September 7). Tidy shape. Used to make these out of paper in junior school classes.

Jeff M Evans, Abu Dhabi