Columbia now has over 100 mini park libraries, thanks to the nonprofit organization Fundalectura and Columbia's parks group. The public literary kiosks, which were created about 10 years ago, are part of the nation's goal to enhance and promote literacy, as well as ensure more people have access to books.
The mini park libraries are part of the PPP program (or 'Paradero Para Libros Para Parques' program), with each holding about 350 books. While there are 100 across the country, Bogota has the largest concentration of kiosks, with each kiosk operating about 12 hours each week, typically on the weekends by volunteers. The mini libraries, in addition to allowing people to borrow books for free (as long as they have a membership), also provide literary activities and homework help to children.
Mini Park Libraries
Fundalectura Creates PPP Program to Give Columbians Access to Books
Trend Themes
1. Mini Park Libraries - The creation of mini park libraries will encourage more reading, literacy and education among the general public.
2. Paradero Para Libros Para Parques Program (PPP) - PPP program could be implemented in other countries to increase access to books and promote literacy in underdeveloped areas.
3. Volunteer-led Literacy Programs - The success of volunteer-led literacy programs in Bogota can inspire similar initiatives in other countries to enhance library services and literacy rates.
Industry Implications
1. Nonprofit Organizations - Nonprofit organizations working in education and literacy promotion can take inspiration from Fundalectura's work and expand their reach with similar programs.
2. Parks and Recreation - Parks authorities and recreation departments in other countries can set up similar mini park libraries to offer more resources for education and literacy to park enthusiasts.
3. Education Services - Education service providers can work with nonprofit groups to establish volunteer-led literacy programs in underprivileged areas.