The Roots Library

Introduction:

Welcome to The Roots Library - a hub of knowledge and hope for out-of-school youth in Mathare, one of Nairobi’s largest and oldest informal settlements. Our aim is to provide safe, educational opportunities that promote lifelong learning and empower the next generation of readers with the literacy skills they need to become change-makers, innovators, and leaders.

Supporting Out-of-School Youth:

The Roots Library recognizes the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by out-of-school youth in Mathare. Several barriers that influence the low rates of formal education in Mathare include:

• Lack of birth certificates or other ID papers necessary for school registration.

• Insufficient funds for transportation, uniforms, and supplies.

• Households are unable to give up the child’s labour income.

• Domestic violence.

• Negative peer influences (drugs, alcohol, and crime).

Everyone has the right to education, but it is more than just a right. It is a lifeline for the many out-of-school youth who are desperately seeking opportunities to thrive.

The informal learning environment of The Roots Library strives to eliminate all barriers that might prevent youth, regardless of their background or circumstances, from accessing information. This is what makes The Roots Library unique:

• Extended hours including days, evenings, and weekends.

• No membership or registration requirement.

• Borrowable books.

• Desktops, comfortable seating, and sufficient lighting.

• No fees.

These key features allow the library and literacy to be accessible to everyone. Extended hours and borrowable books provide the reader with flexibility to balance their other responsibilities, and not having fees or memberships removes all financial barriers that may prevent a person from accessing books.

We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive space where youth can find a pathway to education, skill development, and personal growth.

The Space:

Imagine stepping into a world where the walls are alive with stories; a place that instantly transports you to a realm of imagination. The Roots Library currently consists of two rented rooms within the Mathare Roots Centre on Juja Road, carefully designed with custom shelves and cozy seating to maximize comfort and curiosity.

One day, our dream is to purchase land to build a proper, multi-story, state of the art library in Mathare. This will allow The Roots Library to expand its reach and provide better access to technology, information, and safety.

The Collection:

We believe in the power of knowledge. The Roots Library already has over 500 English books that span various genres and reading levels. The Roots Library accepts donated books, and our purchased books are carefully selected based on their relevance to the local community. Your support will help us build a diverse collection that reflects the aspirations and interests of Mathare's youth.

The Technology:

In today's digital age, access to the internet is a gateway to endless opportunities. The Roots Library currently has two laptops that were generously donated, and we are working on establishing a secure WiFi connection. Our goal is to use technology, and the endless amounts of information available on the internet, to help bridge the information gap in Kenya.

The Programming:

The Roots Library most closely aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #4: Quality Education, but we believe that literacy is the foundation to achieving any of the SDGs. Environmental literacy, health literacy, civic literacy, emotional literacy, digital literacy- the list goes on and on. We understand that literacy is more than just books and the ability to read; it is the key to inspiring thinkers, leaders, innovators, and change-makers. Our programming reflects this belief by hosting environment-themed storytimes and garbage cleanups at the riverside park, organizing menstrual hygiene education and sanitary product distribution events, and providing outreach services during the flash flooding crisis in 2024.

The Volunteers:

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond books and technology. We have 4 incredibly passionate local youth volunteers that are trained to manage and maintain The Roots Library daily. As our project grows, we hope to transform these volunteer positions into paid positions, empowering the Mathare community with meaningful employment and leadership roles.

About Us:

We are Mathare Roots, a registered Community-Based Organization (CBO) in Kenya renowned for our dedication to nurturing healthy living initiatives and supporting local youth. Through regular menstrual hygiene drives, tree planting projects, community park developments, river cleanups, meal distributions, and sports groups, Mathare Roots has consistently proven its commitment to building a better future for Mathare.

How You Can Help (the cost breakdown):

• Purchasing a public computer ($1,500).

• Implementing WiFi connectivity ($1,200/24 months)

• Paying volunteer allowances ($2,400/year) or staff wages ($4,800/year)

• Adding books to our collection ($7/book)

• Re-filling our school and art supplies ($50/month)

• Buying land for a permanent library ($10,000)

• Fostering hope and a love for learning in our community (priceless).

Join Us:

Together, we have the power to create lasting change. By supporting The Roots Library, you are investing in literacy and contributing to healthier, safer, and more sustainable communities. Together, let's build a legacy of knowledge, empowerment, and hope that will resonate for generations to come.

Instagram: @mathare_roots @therootslibrary

Facebook: Mathare Roots Youth Initiative

Website: mathareroots.org