SOS Children's Villages Bookmobile in Indonesia

The children, pre-schoolers, kindergarteners, and older kids alike, jostled to see what the big bus was all about. Ms. Zoi, an educational worker from SOS Children's Villages Indonesia, recalls the children’s wide-eyed curiosity.

Indeed, the mobile library parked next to the school was a novelty. In this locality, children have no libraries. So the first time the mobile library appeared, seemingly out of mid-air, the kids gathered in one spot to listen to the educator tell stories. They seemed relieved to learn that the visit was not a one-time occurrence -- the moving library would be visiting them regularly and they would be able to borrow books from it as often as they liked.

Bringing the World to Children Through Books

Both teachers and parents marvel at the benefit the SOS mobile library is bringing. “Before, children didn’t used to have the opportunity to read. The mobile library has given them access to a new world where they can be more knowledgeable,” said one teacher who, with colleagues, has asked the mobile library to make longer visits.

“Children now have more information to share with friends and at home,” remarked one parent. “They are more careful in their school work because they are able to read more fluently.”

The SOS mobile library visits several schools in the area. Children at one preschool love playing with the library’s educational toys. They often ask the educator to tell them a story. Ms. Zoi observes that the youngsters listen carefully and are curious about the illustrations. A picture of an unfamiliar fruit prompts them to ask how it is grown and what it tastes like.

SOS is best known for raising orphaned and abandoned children, but carries out many other projects that benefit needy children and families not living in SOS Children’s Villages.