Giving a book to a child is so simple, and can make such a difference.
14th February is International Book Giving Day, when people around the world make an extra effort to provide children with books. Stories and books are not only a source of joy and pleasure to children (and adults), but also support language and concept development, and critical thinking.
At ITEC, we are trying to make a difference. We work with schools from disadvantaged communities to set up classroom libraries.
If you would like to help make a difference too, donate good quality books you no longer need, or perhaps a book voucher. If you would like to know more, call the ITEC Librarian at 043 7438 333.
And start thinking about World Read Aloud Day on 16 February!
* Source: Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2015. You can download the latest South African reports on Grade 5 and Grade 9 here. The Grade 5 study found that children with access to more than 25 books at home achieved 45 points (equivalent to a grade) higher for mathematics and science (see page 8). Grade 9 learners with more than 25 books at home achieved 47 points more for maths and 58 points higher for science. You can download the latest South African reports on Grade 5 and Grade 9 here.
**Information about school libraries:
The State of School Libraries in South Africa (2013), published in the Journal of Education, University of Kwazulu-Natal.
The State of Libraries in South Africa (2015), jointly published by the Department of Arts and Culture and the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA).
Equal Education is a good source of information about the campaign for all schools to have libraries.
