Children dropping out of school because they cannot read prompted Alitha Frans to start a mobile library in Parkwood.
Alitha says that a number of laaities are sukkeling with reading: “Children are struggling to read in front of their classmates and are embarrased. They then drop out, and do you know who is waiting for them when they drop out of school? The gangsters.”
Alitha who has been running the Klein Begin Gemeenskap Biblioteek in Parkwood for the last five years and a feeding scheme during lockdown, reached out to Siyazana Youth Development Fund for assistance.
The organisation has been assisting her since July 2020 with ingredients for her feedings scheme. Last Tuesday, they donated a mobile library with books for the community.
Ian Miller, senior volunteer at Siyazana, says: “During this time we realised the bigger impact that she has on the community by offering children a free library service from her home.
“With the passing of one of our mentors, Paul Tilliard, who developed this kit, it became important for us to donate one of these kits to Klein Begin Gemeenskap Biblioteek in Paul’s memory.
“Now, Sister Alitha can use play as a means of teaching children to read and write.
The Library on Wheels is a mobile unit that can be moved around easily and not only offers books to read, but it also has a play section where puppet shows can be staged and puzzles can be completed.
“I am happy with the help I received, the children will benefit the most and hopefully this will keep them in school,” said Alitha.