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.