Introducing Our New Treasurer: Abdelmalek Baddouri

Abdelmalek Baddouri took the place of Mira Faas as treasurer of the Biblionef Board. Abdel lives in The Hague with his wife and young children. As an accountant at Publieke Sector Accountants, Abdel focuses on the annual reports of foundations and associations. In an interview, Abdel says:

When browsing LinkedIn, the vacancy for treasurer at Biblionef poppep up. I was immediately interested to learn more about Biblionef and thought it was a wonderful initiative. And I had some time to spare, as I had just completed my previous voluntary position. I have always volunteered in the sports sector, ensuring that young children are able to participate in sports. Children are also what motivates me now. Learning to read and the joy of reading are basic needs, essential to a child’s development and future.  I am happy to contribute to helping children have access to books and reading in other parts of the world.

Energy
I met with Biblionef director Bethzy Gianella Chiang soon after and then met with the chair of the board, Julia Djarova. The energy that they conveyed, and how they make the most of it in that tiny office in the National Library, with a group of dedicated volunteers… I am very eager to contribute. It is wonderful to be able to help people whom you don’t even know. I feel that it is my obligation to help. We are not robots.

Reading Like a Pro
As a child, I didn’t like reading at all. Until I had to read De Aanslag by Harry Mulisch in secondary school. That book really moved me. From then on, I started to enjoy reading. I even liked it more than watching television.  And now, my wife and I read aloud to our children. They both have their own bookcase and are members of the library.

Feasible Plans
In the meantime, I have started as treasurer at Biblionef. The finances are in order, income offsets expenses. I have noticed that the people at Biblionef think in possibilities and want to take advantage of all opportunities. Sometimes they get a bit carried away in their enthusiasm. It is my job to keep track of whether the plans are financially feasible.  We explore all cost-free options first, and only then do we purchase something new. The dedication, enthusiasm and willingness of all those involved with Biblionef, is energizing to me.