School Libraries That Inspire Readers

Silem Foundation works with partner schools in Haiti to create simple, welcoming school libraries where children can read, learn, and grow.
Many students attend school without access to books beyond their basic textbooks. By opening libraries and supplying quality reading materials, we help children develop literacy, curiosity, and confidence.

We invite individuals, schools, and organizations to donate new and gently used books in French and Haitian Creole, so students can discover the joy of reading and learning.

Why School Libraries Matter

In many Haitian schools, classrooms have no libraries and very few books. Teachers work with limited resources, and children rarely have the opportunity to read for pleasure or explore subjects beyond the curriculum.

Even a small library can make a powerful difference. Access to books helps:

  • Strengthen reading and comprehension skills

  • Encourage daily reading habits

  • Build confidence and imagination

  • Support academic success across subjects

  • Create a safe, inspiring learning environment

By establishing school libraries, we are not only adding books—we are creating spaces where children can dream, learn, and grow.


What Kind of Books We Accept

We accept new and gently used books that meet the following criteria:

Languages

  • French

  • Haitian Creole

Condition

  • Clean and in good condition

  • No missing pages

  • No mold, water damage, or heavy writing inside

Age Range

  • Children and youth (approximately ages 4–18)

Ideal Book Types

  • Picture books and storybooks

  • Early readers and chapter books

  • Novels for children and teens

  • Non-fiction (science, history, culture, health, biographies)

  • Dictionaries and reference books (French, Creole, French–Creole)

  • Educational and age-appropriate activity books

Books We Cannot Accept

  • Books in poor or damaged condition

  • Highly technical or advanced academic textbooks

  • Content that is violent, hateful, or inappropriate for a school setting


How to Donate Books

Whether you are an individual or an organization, there are several ways to support this initiative.

Individuals & Families

  • Collect new or gently used books in French or Haitian Creole.

  • Ensure books are clean and school-appropriate.

  • Contact us to arrange drop-off or shipping details.

Schools, Churches & Community Groups

  • Organize a book drive in your school, church, or workplace.

  • Invite participants to donate French or Haitian Creole children’s books.

  • We can provide a short description of the initiative to share with your community.

Partners & Sponsors

  • Sponsor the shipping costs of donated books to Haiti.

  • Support the purchase of shelves, furniture, and reading materials.

  • Help fund the creation of new school libraries in partner schools.

👉 To donate books or discuss partnerships, please contact us and mention “School Libraries & Book Donations” in your message.


What Your Support Makes Possible

Every box of books helps us:

  • Create reading corners and small libraries in classrooms

  • Refresh schools with age-appropriate and engaging books

  • Support teachers with tools to improve literacy outcomes

  • Give children the opportunity to read for joy, not just for exams

Our goal is to support more schools each year, building a growing network of libraries that will serve children and communities for years to come.


Help Put a Book in a Child’s Hands

A single book can spark curiosity.
A small library can change a school.

If you have books to donate—or would like to sponsor a school library—we would love to hear from you.

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