The ATD Fourth World Street Library is about bringing books, art, and other tools for learning (including digital resources) to children from disadvantaged communities and their families. It is open to everyone, as it takes place in the heart of the community: outdoors, in parks, town squares, markets, on staircase landings, beneath trees or streetlamps, and even in remote rural or mountainous regions.

The Street Library creates a unique space for sharing knowledge that satisfies children’s curiosity, rekindles their joy for learning, and inspires them to uncover and share their talents. Its regular presence and duration build trust between children, their
families, and the facilitators, serving as an initial step towards broader social involvement. This space also nurtures other cultural activities, including reading workshops, literacy support, and creative projects such as books, murals, and performances.

ATD Fourth World Street Libraries thus serve as a bridge towards the wider world, connecting children to local libraries, schools, sports or computer clubs, theatres—enabling them to participate in community activities and thrive within them.

Our Street Libraries are always in need of facilitators. Get in touch!

To view the document on the ATD Fourth World’s child protection policy, click here.