“I love library days!” Our Magic School Bus and Reading Rover wind through dusty roads taking books to children in our partner schools. The children are always waiting eagerly for our arrival and it is a magical time to interact and check out books. We also lend books and host Saturday Story times, the Reading Challenge and Radio Shows to encourage reading.

In my work as a literacy champion, I have learned that promoting reading in rural areas is not about enforcing books, but planting seeds of joy, wonder and a love for reading. It’s also about meeting people where they are with patience and respect and offering books not just as educational tools but as companions and toys for babies. Sometimes, all it takes is access, encouragement, and a space where imagination is allowed to grow.

Every book that I check out carries hope. Every return visit at a school is a sign that we are making a difference. Every child that runs up to me during library days with his/her card reminds me that books are powerful and that the resources of the Kenya Connect Library, change lives.