Access to educational resources is a significant challenge in many parts of the world, and Cambodia is no exception. In a country where books and literacy materials are scarce, our mobile library is dedicated to overcoming these barriers by bringing books directly to those who need them most. Launched in 2020 during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, this project has become a vital part of our programs, fostering a love for reading among children in Siem Reap.
How Does It Work?
Our mobile library operates from a small vehicle, similar to a golf cart, equipped to transport a diverse collection of books. The library offers books in both English and Khmer, catering to a wide age range from children to teenagers. Every two weeks, on Sunday mornings, our bookmobile visits the villages of Siem Reap, Svay Dankum, or Sala Kamreuk, reaching students who are not part of Anjali House.
During each session, children can read independently or join group reading activities with Anjali House students and teachers. The visits also include comprehension activities and fun games, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Why a Mobile Library?
Books have a unique power to open up new worlds for children, allowing them to explore different cultures, understand various viewpoints, and experience a range of emotions. Reading can spark a lifelong love for literature and helps young readers build a richer vocabulary by introducing them to new words. As they imagine the stories and anticipate what happens next, their creativity and imagination flourish.
In today’s digital age, children often choose smartphones and electronic devices over books for entertainment. In Cambodia, access to books is particularly rare. Many villages are still unfamiliar with our services, and our mobile library plays a crucial role in bridging this gap by bringing books directly to these communities. While we might not have all the solutions, we connect local needs with our partners who provide essential services.
The mobile library also fosters community engagement. Our Future Leaders students use this opportunity to lead workshops on nutrition, hygiene, and preventing illness. We work closely with the Commune Chief to organize library trips and gather children, ensuring that they benefit from these educational experiences.
Our Impact and Future Goals
Since its inception, the mobile library has made significant strides. In 2023 alone, it completed 15 trips, reaching 125 new children with books and learning opportunities. By June 2024, the library had already made 9 trips, impacting 41 new kids.
Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our reach and impact with each mobile library trip. Our goal is to continue increasing the number of children we serve, ensuring that more communities have access to books and educational resources.
It is inspiring to see that other organizations, such as the Ponheary Ly Foundation, Sipar, and the Phare mobile library in Battambang, are also running similar initiatives. Their efforts reflect a shared dedication to improving access to books for children across Cambodia. While we operate independently, it is encouraging to be part of this broader movement that supports the educational development of young minds throughout the region.
Support our mobile library through donations or simply by spreading the word about this vital project!
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