The Doulos Hope Floating Library is one of the world’s most interesting bookstores.
What does “hope” mean to you?
To the world’s biggest floating library, it means acquiring the knowledge and inspiration to continue on and make great things happen.
The MV Doulos Hope, a vessel from floating bookstore pioneers GBA ships, successfully docked in Cebu in October, enticing dozens of visitors from bookworms to young professionals and wanderlust-seeking travelers.
This converted cruise ship houses thousands of reading materials, including children’s literature books, general references, biographies, and self-help books.
They also have a selection of souvenirs and a cafe where you can relax and go over the books you’ve purchased.
The arrival of the floating library is an event that Cebuanos anticipate, ever since it arrived in the country decades ago when it was simply called Doulos.
The new vessel is the second ship to the Logos Hope, which also made its way to the country in 2015.
GETTING ON THE DOULOS FLOATING LIBRARY
As part of a charity, MV Doulos has family-friendly content like children’s literature books and self-help books.
The Doulos Hope is docked at Cebu Pier 5, which is right across from Robinsons Galleria Cebu. It’s only a walking distance from the mall. You can get off the jeepney on the highway, then walk to the pier.
At the pier, you will be greeted by their friendly staff and crew hailing from different parts of the globe. The welcome tent is where visitors claim their tickets, which costs Php 50.
The staff prioritizes online bookings, so it’s best that you do this before visiting the vessel. Their online booking system is open on Sundays and Wednesdays, with Sundays assigned for Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and Wednesdays for Fridays and throughout the weekend.
After booking online, secure the QR code which you will present to the staff. They will give you a small ticket which you will present to the crewmember stationed at the entrance to the vessel.
Walk-in passengers must wait in line, which may take longer on busy days. On weekdays, lines are much shorter, and you can enter the minute you arrive at the pier.
Once you’ve paid the entrance fee, you can make your way to the second floor and witness the library’s massive collection of books.
ABOARD THE VESSEL
The number of books to buy is endless at the MV Doulos.
As mentioned, most books at the floating library are catered to kids and young adults. It’s part of a Christian charity, and many of their materials are religion and faith-themed.
Some children’s books borrow from pop culture entities like Disney, Star Wars, and more. There are even international versions of classic tales like Aladdin that will entice fiction fans.
You might find a few adult fiction novels from the likes of David Baldacci or Ian Rankin, but there are only a few copies available. There are, however, a vast collection of biographies and inspirational success stories of survival and determination.
Self-help books are also worthwhile guides that aid those who aspire to be successful leaders, entrepreneurs, and businessmen.
There are guides on relationships, raising families, and financial advice as well.
The Doulos Floating Library offers various knickknacks and souvenirs like lanyards, keychains, pens, and notebooks. The Philippine Christian Book Store has a stall selling t-shirts and bags, as well as more books about the Christian faith.
All items are sold using a unit system posted on the walls. One item can cost as low as Php 30 or as high as Php 1,200.
At the end of the vessel is the Hope Cafe, where guests can unwind after shopping at the book fair. They sell light snacks and drinks at affordable prices.
You can buy popcorn for Php 40 and pair it with juice or soft drinks.
They also offer soft serve ice cream for Php 50. Flavors include vanilla, chocolate, or a mix of both.
The staff will only accept cash and credit, no physical debit cards. So make sure to bring pocket money with you when you visit the vessel.
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The MV Doulos Floating Library is well-known among Cebuanos, as its arrival is highly anticipated. Its vast collection of reading materials offers various options for learning for both the young and old.
There are no updates as to when the ship will be coming back to Cebu, so if you want to experience the famous bookstore, now would be a good time as it’s on its last week here in Cebu.
HOW TO GET THERE
Exact Location:
Cebu Pier 5, across Robinsons Galleria, Cebu City
Operating Hours:
1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
You can ride any public utility jeepney en route to SM City that passes by Robinsons Galleria. You can get off the highway, but be careful as there is no proper drop-off point.
You can also take a free bus ride from Robinsons Fuente to Galleria.
