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What is a Little Library? Little Libraries focuses on providing the resources and environment where children can discover the joy of reading. It is the goal that each Little Library has a collection of 5,000 fiction and non-fiction books. Why is a Little Library important?Studies have found that the early years of a child's environment are critical for future success in learning, literacy, and school readiness. Little Libraries provide a safe and welcoming place where children receive a meal, interact with caring adults, have access to colorful and interesting books, have fun and participate in other creative activities. All services are free. Where is a Little Library located?There are currently Little Libraries in Brazil (4), the Philippines(3) and Canada(1). Each Little Library is located in a poor community where children have little exposure to books and reading materials at home. The children's parents are generally illiterate. Typically, these communities are where the worst schools are located and/or there is no school close-by. How does a Little Library operate?Each Little Library helps motivate children to explore books so that reading becomes part of everyday life. Books are displayed so that children are engaged by the colourful and interesting covers and titles. Books may be displayed in themes. The children are encouraged to browse through books at their leisure. There is furniture and posters on the walls that contribute to a look and feel conducive to learning. The children can also borrow books and take them home. In addition, at each Little Library, there are additional creative strategies used to encourage children to create their own plays, artwork and stories. Each Little Library's operating hours accommodate the childrens' work commitments. Who will you see in a Little Library?Adults play an important role in enabling children to learn about reading. Critical to the success of the learning strategies at each Little Library is the role of "reading mediators" who are specially trained to read and tell stories. This interactive activity fosters children's creativity and imagination as well as stimulating their interestin reading. Reading mediators are typically adult volunteers from the community.
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