Doorstep Library

Since its inception, three aims have guided the Doorstep Library project: promoting the enjoyment of books and reading to children of low-income families; befriending families in need of support and helping them re-connect with the local community; and building stronger community ties.

Through weekly visits to a disadvantaged housing estate in West London, children are encouraged to experience the joys of books while their parents are supported to engage their children in learning, even when their own literacy skills are limited, and embrace books and communication as essential for the education and well-being of their children. In addition, the Doorstep Library team offers reassurance and a bridge to local services and resources that parents are often afraid to access.

Such has been the success of the project as a whole that one mother explained, “Now I often take my children to the library. Thanks to you guys, you have shown me the way. My son loves reading and his teacher even asked me how I did it.”  

An annual Summer Festival, made possible by partnerships with local organisations, dancers, artists and residents, demonstrates how excluded families can access resources that are not normally available to them in an atmosphere that emphasises cross-community cohesion.