Since the opening of the very first READ library in 1991, our centers have acted as the ultimate equalizer. They serve as spaces for communities to come together regardless of education level, ethnicity, or caste so they can collaborate to build more resilient communities.

Because READ Centers are owned and managed by a community, they have always been neutral places of unity and peace – even during times of political unrest. This has empowered READ Center users to report having a strong sense of belonging to their local centers as well as expanded trust in their fellow community members after working together to solve collective issues. For International Day of Peace, we’d like to thank all of our READ Centers and the community members who run them for taking the initiative to serve their communities and provide a safe space for all to access education and opportunity. Thank you, and happy International Day of Peace!