Found a Library for 250 Mayan Kids in Guatemala

Is the library open yet?  Three months ago Instituto Privado Mixto Kajib’ No’j received a beautifully constructed wood and glass bookshelf, a gift from our partners, the Amigos at the Austrian Guatemalan Institute.  This gorgeous piece now holds Guatemalan textbooks for all primary subjects and grades, as well as world literature for the school’s more advanced readers.  The classroom, where last year young musicians practiced the marimba, now serves as the library.  Tables and chairs moved in, and students began to occupy them.   Yes, Ladies and Gents, the Biblioteca Kajib’ No’j is now open and serving its community. 

Principal Pedro Euligio claims that this project strengthens the development of critical thinking skills as well as enriches the knowledge and vocabulary of the students.  Purportedly this nascent library, with only a few hundred books, is already influencing educational outcomes for Kajib’ No’j’s elementary and middle school students. The library is indispensable because it provides various sources of information and at the same time encourages our students to read, says one teacher.  To date the library in this school has had a great influence on learning, says another.

A library is much more than a venue.  It is a hope, a dream, a future.  It is power.  From Books to Brilliance and our generous supporters work hard to invest resources where libraries like this one will thrive.  It is the complementary hard work and persistence of the faculty that inspires students to read, study, and to take advantage of those resources.  Their enthusiasm inspires us as well.  During our annual trip to Guatemala in July, we expect to grow this tiny library, tailoring all books and educational materials to the specific needs and requests of staff and students at Kajib’ No’j.  Please watch for upcoming news and thank you so much for your support!