Safe Space Library

A safe space for children and their teachers, parents and communities to learn, play, grow, evolve and exercise their rights under one roof that teaches them to be challenging and learn to try new things breaking their own conditioned behaviors, fail, inquire, unlearn and understand with more sensitive approaches and nuances.

5 2470+

Learners Impacted

Libraries

Feminist Reading Club

Under Safe Spaces Library, we have initiated Feminist Reading Club whose goal is to create a reading culture for narrative changes towards creating safe spaces for everyone in their vulnerable and underserved communities.

Initially, 180 girls and 250 boys were selected in 2022 as part of our LifeSkills Training Program against Child Marriage in the Tribal Schools of Kalvarayan Hills in the Kallakurichi District for their passion in learning and their ability to mentor. Our facilitators guided them to read, research, present, debate and present their learnings within their classrooms over a 20 week-long intervention program. As takehome activity, we have introduced feminism-based topics and perspectives beyond their experience in the tribal hamlets on a weekly basis as BOOKs.

Our Club is not just about books; it's about cultivating the seeds of knowledge, curiosity, and empowerment in the hearts and minds of these young people. It's a place where their shame dies, where they can dive into stories that transport them to new worlds and introduce them to characters who inspire and empower.

Library based Engagements

Every week, learners gather in distinct age groups of 7-10 yrs, 11-15 yrs, and 16+ yrs.
This grouping was essential to tailor our activities to their specific developmental needs and provide an environment where they can engage with age-appropriate narratives towards understanding their bodies and minds to own their agency. Younger persons explore colorful picture books, while teens delve into more complex themes, discussions and debated over changing the narratives. This approach ensures that everyone benefits optimally from the program, fostering a deep connection to reading and empowerment.