READ Global

"Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life."
― Sidney Sheldon

This quote encompasses the beliefs of the READ Global organization. It is a non-profit organization founded by Dr. Antonia “Toni” Neubauer, a former language teacher and education researcher. After travelling throughout Asia and she wanted to give back to the communities she loved. READ promotes literacy skills for children and adults. Their programs include education for children, empowering women and providing access to technology for the entire community at READ Centers which are self-sustaining community owned and managed.

Creating New Literacy Opportunities.

Read provides education for the entire village regardless of age or background. They believe that literacy opens doors to improving one's livelihood. They do this through establishing a READ Center which has a library, computer room and training area. In addition, the centre has a specific area for children and for women with special resources.

The READ Center strives to provide literacy programs that are centred on creating a culture of learning which includes, adult literacy courses, activities that promote reading, and study groups to support the learning of basic skills. Health program that provides information about basic preventative health such as nutrition, hygiene and sexual health. Children's programs with children's books, educational games and toys, art workshops, and reading groups.  Youth support is available for school-age children by loaning out school textbooks, and tablets and offering homework and tutoring support.

The READ Center also provides additional programs to support the entire community.
Women's Programs offer leadership development and provide a safe place for women and girls to gather, learn and build their confidence and equip them with skills to become leaders in their families and communities. The Women and Family Health program provides specialized health information and workshops on family planning and sexual and reproductive health.  Technology Programs aim to bridge the digital divide between developing and developed nations. When possible they provide free access to computers and internet training and online communication training to help the community become more competitive for jobs.

In addition, READ is trying a variety of ways to improve educational outcomes. For example, they are creating online content databases for students and farmers in Nepal.

Moving forward

Continued efforts to keep developing a self-sustaining program will be the most beneficial way to support literacy for present and future generations. Also, continued flexibility within the programs encourages the community to determine the programs that will be the most beneficial for its members. READ works in partnership with several organizations. Continuing to develop relationships/partnerships with educational institutions and publishing agencies would be beneficial to ensure the programs keep up with the rapidly changing digital world.

The READ Centers strongly demonstrate how a library is so much more than a collection of books. It is a place for a community to come together to better its livelihood and that of its future generations.

Works Cited

"READ Global." READ Global, Kaptiv8, www.readglobal.org/. Accessed 11 June 2023.

Sheldon, Sidney. "Good Reads Quotable Quote." Good Reads, www.goodreads.com/quotes/339370-libraries-store-the-energy-that-fuels-the-imagination-they-open. Accessed 11 June 2023.