lilipad libraries
Culturally-affirming libraries where children need them most.
WHY THIS WORK MATTERS
We partner with refugee accommodations, youth centres, orphanages, community centres, and sometimes even schools to create access to inclusive, multilingual books and learning opportunities. Our tailored approach ensures that every library we build meets the unique needs of the community it serves.
“The workshops offered a creative space where children could explore, experiment, and feel proud of what they created.”
Taha
Artist & Workshop Facilitator
OUR APPROACH
Connect with local institutions
We partner with local institutions, such as accommodations, community centres, and schools and work closely with their teams to understand the specific needs of the children and families they support.
Build a lilipad library
Our partner institutions provide us with spaces which we transform into dedicated children's libraries. We stock these libraries with multilingual storybooks and educational materials, and even supply textbooks when needed - either placed within the libraries or distributed directly to the children.
Provide long-term support
Once our libraries open, we ensure they remain lively and engaging by organising workshops, events, and bringing in external support. We also keep our collections fresh for avid readers by regularly restocking with new books.
TESTIMONIALS
Hear directly from our participants and collaborators:
I didn’t know I could write a song. When we recorded it, I felt proud.
Participant
Age 11
The library is a crucial space for children who have not yet been granted access to school. Through workshops, they build skills before entering the classroom.
Kids Coordinator
Berlin
My daughter talks about the workshops all week. She feels confident sharing what she created.
Parent
ADD INFO
LATEST FROM OUR LIBRARIES
Each library is a world.
Across 5 countries, children access culturally-significant books in their languages at lilipad libraries. Each library has its own story - read some of them here!
Donate
Keep our libraries running
Your support helps ensure children continue to have access to spaces where their language, curiosity, and imagination are taken seriously.
