By Mandy Lo
In the border town of Tijuana, Mexico, access to quality education can be a significant hurdle for many children. But on one special evening, a unique initiative brought a world of possibilities to their doorstep.
A Library on Wheels Arrives
On October 28, 2024, excitement filled the air at the Tzu Chi Mexico Campus in Tijuana. The reason? The arrival of the Mexican government's "Mobile Library" van. Over 130 eager children, including those from the Tzu Chi Hope Classroom, Mercy School in San Nicolás, and families from the community, were ready to dive into the world of books.
A First Look at Limitless Worlds
For many of the young attendees, this was their first chance to freely explore a wide selection of books and choose stories that truly resonated with them. The van's shelves were packed with vibrant and engaging titles, sparking curiosity and a sense of wonder.
Each child was able to select two books to take home—a gift from Tzu Chi, meant to encourage their love of reading. From classic fairy tales to captivating adventures, the books reflected the diverse interests and aspirations of these young minds.
Reading: A Passport to New Perspectives
Sumei Juan, a dedicated Tzu Chi volunteer, understands the transformative power of reading. "Even if they can't physically travel, books can take children beyond their immediate surroundings," she explained. "They can explore new worlds and gain perspectives that enrich their lives."
The Mobile Library initiative perfectly complements this vision. It brings learning directly to the children, fostering a culture of reading and providing them with valuable resources they might not otherwise have. Sumei Juan emphasized the collaborative spirit of the project: "We were delighted to host the Mobile Library on our campus. It was a wonderful opportunity to share the joy of reading with children from different backgrounds and neighborhoods."
Magic Under the Stars
The evening was more than just borrowing books. Storytelling sessions held under the twinkling night sky brought the tales to life, captivating the children with animated performances. Local authors were also present, adding a special touch by sharing their inspiration and signing copies of their books.
"I chose Mickey Mouse and the Pet Store and Beauty and the Beast," shared Esmeralda, a thirteen-year-old student from Mercy School, her face beaming with excitement. "I love this place and am so grateful to everyone here."
Jonathan Hershey, a high school student from the Hope Classroom, eagerly shared, “A friend recommended Tales at Dusk. The title and cover caught my attention, and I couldn’t resist picking it up.” Another student, Yareli, was drawn to a book about physics in medicine, eager to share her newfound knowledge with her classmates.
Teachers, too, recognized the event's value. Axel Reyes Cruz, a middle school teacher from Mercy School, noted, "Reading is the foundation of knowledge. It’s essential for expanding one’s perspectives and sparking imagination. This activity is invaluable, not only for the children but also for us educators.”
Planting Seeds for the Future
Tzu Chi and its partners hope that this experience will instill a lifelong love of learning in the children of Tijuana. By encouraging clear expression, creativity, and problem-solving, reading empowers them to succeed in their education and future careers. While the challenges of poverty remain, these small steps promise lasting change.
The children left that night carrying more than just books – they carried the seeds of a brighter tomorrow, fueled by imagination and a newfound love for reading. With hope in their hearts and stories in their hands, they are ready to write their own chapters.
