Problem

The concept of a school library is virtually non-existent in many communities throughout the developing world. Because so many people survive on less than $1 per day, children's books are considered luxury items. In some cases, not a single book is available to children to encourage independent learning, intellectual curiosity, and a lifelong passion for reading. Your gift will create a child-friendly environment in an existing school community where children can access age-appropriate books.

The Gift

Your gift will establish a school library that will serve more than 200 children. The first step towards the lifelong gift of education is putting a book in the hands of a child. Your library will be established in partnership with a school community within an existing room. Room to Read creates a child-friendly learning environment, complete with as many as 300 to 1000 age-appropriate local language and English children's books, furniture, games, puzzles, and posters. In these libraries, students find books that expand their world, teach them new ideas, and equip them with critical life skills. Furthermore, as part of our Reading Room Program, we provide training on proper library implementation with three years of support, which includes the provision of additional children's books and further training for staff.