EL SALVADOR

El Salvador is the 'peace-time' country with the highest per capita homicide rate in the world. Gangs are essentially determining the fate of children, which is why so many have elected to leave. Library of Dreams, La biblioteca de los sueños was created in one of the neighbourhoods where people live immersed in a climate of insecurity. We know that through reading, Salvadoran children can dream and make healthy positive choices for their future. The Library creates a space where children of El Salvador may develop an approach to literature, art and nature through reading and the experience of a harmonious encounter with nature such that through them they can arrive at a more dignified and just coexistence and to be empowered to create real change in their lives.

IBBY El Salvador has the opportunity to build a permanent library in Santa Domingo de Guzman, a semi-rural area with a primarily indigenous population. The local income in the area is below the national average and literacy rate is low. Award-winning Salvadorian author Jorge Argueta conceived and founded the Library of Dreams to increase literacy and promote a love of reading for children.

Currently housed in a temporary facility, the programme includes a read-in and lending library, 3x weekly read-aloud and story-telling events for children, reading instruction for children, a safe place for children to go and educator training by working with local schools.

Read a presentation about the Library of Dreams and its plans for a more secure future here and watch a short video from the library, celebrating the Day of the Dead with the children here.
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In 2022, USBBY started a fundraising campaign to support the building of a new library.

Description of current needs to follow.