Student opens library in the park in time for World Literacy Day

Sixteen-year-old McKenzie-Reece Mahabir is making a difference in the lives of children one page at a time.

She officially opened a mini library, Tales and Trails Little Library, at Palmiste Park in San Fernando yesterday on World Literacy Day.

The Form Five Naparima Girls’ High School student knows the importance of reading and wants to share her passion with other children by making books easily accessible in a welcoming space.

Explaining that the idea came from her love for reading, she said every child, no matter his or her background, should be able to enjoy and feel the love of reading and getting lost in a good book.

“The library is open on World Literacy Day because of the importance of reading. I think reading is the foundation for all educational life and literacy especially because literacy is the building blocks that a child develops at early ages that help them through communication and social skills and basically education for life so I think this is a good start for them to just start reading, socialise in the park and help them through their education,” she said.

McKenzie-Reese noted that the library was free of charge to the public, but the books were not to be removed from the park and must be returned.

Admitting that initially she was concerned about theft and vandalism, she said the initiative was built on trust in the community so she doesn’t believe it would be a big problem.

“I’d like to invite all kids, I would like you to come visit and enjoy these books. Parents bring them, and spread a blanket or a sheet and enjoy all their books and bring them back when they are finished,” she said.

Commending McKenzie-Reese on her initiative, Terrence Honore, president of the Palmiste Historical Society, described her as an entrepreneur of love and sharing. He encouraged her to continue to be an “example to young people in the community.”

Praising McKenzie-Reese for undertaking a leadership role, Usha Rampersad, a representative for Oropouche East MP Dr Roodal Moonilal, called on the community to support her initiative.

She added, “In this day and age when we know there are issues of safety and crime we need the community engagement to be the keeper of something like this and that will really be a real support for her and for others to continue with drives like these. This is something we really need to see our youths involved in.”

The library will be open from 9 am to 6 pm daily, and anyone willing to donate can contact McKenzie-Reese through her Instagram page talesandtrails.tt.

The post Student opens library in the park in time for World Literacy Day first appeared on CNC3.