The many programs of La Biblioteca Thuruchapitas

Visitors from the United States often have a difficult time comprehending the structure of la Biblioteca. We are accustomed to centralized libraries visited by the patrons. La Biblioteca on the other hand, does most of its work by going out and visiting the patrons.

Below is a listing of some of the primary projects of la Biblioteca Th'uruchapitas.

La Ronda de Libros: A program in which volunteer teachers receive thirteen books from la Biblioteca to keep in their classrooms and distribute among their students. The teachers assume responsibility for the books and if one is lost, they must pay for the replacement. Children fill out information including address, parent's employment, etc. and they are able to take the books home. Often the book is read by all the members of the family. Over one thousand books are circulating through this project.

Trencita de la Lectura (BookTrain): A motorized train with engine and passenger car, equipped with books. The train gets quite a bot of attention driving through the streets, attracting kids to take a spin around town while reading books. Unfortnately the train is a bit cumbersome in heavy traffic so it tours the outlaying areas of Cochabamba.

Bibliobus (Bookmobile): Donated by the international Rotary Clubs, including funds from Watauga County, North Carolina. The bus also travels throughout the town and surrounding area to bring books to children.

CAICC / 'Para No Estar Solos': La Biblioteca works with CAICC, a non-profit program for the children of inmates at the women's prison near Cochabamba, to offer reading, writing, speech, and art sessions. The kids live with their mothers in the prison but attend school, CAICC, and other activities during the day. For more information and pictures about CAICC, see blog posting for March 9, 2010.

Centro Cultural Sacaba: A small library in the neighboring town of Sacaba. El Centro offers books and academic support to students in a friendly and spacious environment. El Centro is a cooperative effort between La Biblioteca and el Municipio de Sacaba.

Publications: Gaby Vallejo and other volunteers have published numerous children's books, scholary research, and informational materials. For a listing, visit the Biblioteca Th'uruchapitas publications website.