Alola’s Mobile Library is designed to allow children access to the books and to develop a culture of reading with communities’ involvement. Our Mobile Library operated through visiting children in remote communities to provide access to reading and other educational activities in the afternoon (after school hours). 

During 2024, the Mobile Library team is conducting activities in various communities in Dili. The team has visited Beduku and Masilidun to conduct reading activities for children aged 6-9 years old who are in grades 1-3 of basic schools. The Mobile Library team conducts reading activities after school hours using books, puzzles, and fun games to engage children. The children are excited and enthusiastic about the activities, as it is an excellent way to help them improve their literacy and numeracy skills. A total of 167 students, comprising 84 boys and 83 girls in grades 1-3 were attended reading activities. The team participated in the Book Fair Event organized by the Education Department in RAEOA, conducting reading activities and fun games for children over two weeks. Many Basic school

students actively engaged, working well with the District Education Department. The team read books in Tetun, with Mrs. Inacia Tamele providing interpretation in Baikeno. During their visit to Oecusse, they connected with the Daughters of St. Francis of Assisi Orphanage and Tulaica-Aenmat Primary School, distributing storybooks to promote literacy and foster a love for reading.

The Mobile Library team collaborated with the Government TV channel, Television Timor Leste (TVTL), to produce a video highlighting children’s participation in reading activities. The primary objective of this initiative is to foster cultural appreciation and reading habits among children, while also enhancing their literacy skills. 

A total of 30 children engaged in the recent mobile library session, displaying considerable enthusiasm while selecting books from the library van. The participants expressed their enjoyment and appreciation for the experience, highlighting the positive impact of the mobile library on their reading interests. On the other hand, the parents expressed their satisfaction with this activity, noting its positive impact on children’s reading and writing skills. They believe it significantly

enhances their children’s knowledge in these areas.