Reading is crucial as it broadens perspectives and nurtures numerous skills. However, it is increasingly seen as a tedious activity. How can we foster a love for reading within our community and make it accessible to all?
This question drove the students of class 2A at the "Carlotta Aschieri" Institute in San Pietro in Cariano (VR) to develop a service benefiting the entire town located in the Veronese hills.
The "Free the Book" project originated from reading promotion activities conducted by the school in close partnership with the local library and municipal social services.
After reviving their own joy for reading, the students commenced on identifying a prominent location in their town where books could be freely available for all who wish to engage in a good read and dream!
A key ingredient of their project was the collaborative network that the school established: the social cooperative Hermete, the municipal social services educator, the local librarian and the primary school teachers who guided the students in designing and performing a reading initiative for younger peers to approach reading activities.
They also constructed a beautiful book exchange house to be placed in the often busy town square, right in front of the Town Hall.
Numerous contributors were involved: the municipal library supplied the initial collection of books and led reading promotion activities, the school principal enabled the project's realization and the Mayor of San Pietro in Cariano embraced the wonderful initiative, facilitating the installation of the book house.
At the inauguration, the Mayor was extremely touched and he even shared with the students that their proposal was the loveliest he had ever received: young people wanting to make something beautiful for their town!
"The entire journey has undoubtedly boosted their self-confidence, awareness, and self-esteem," said teacher Loredana Guglielmi.
"They felt a sense of pride when mentoring the younger students, and were deeply engaged when they wrote a letter to the Mayor, received the administration to present their project and request approval and during the grand opening."
The book house was inaugurated on Tuesday, May 28, parents, community members and local officials were present. Now, the residents of San Pietro in Cariano can taste the pleasure of reading a good book, thanks to the efforts of class 2A!
