Doorstep Library and the garden
The garden supports Doorstep Library’s work, reflecting their journey into the homes of children who need their support, and the individual approach they take. "Words Take You Places" is the Doorstep Library motto, and the undivided attention a volunteer gives a child, reading with them one to one, opens young people’s eyes to the wonder and magic of books. Doorstep Library inspires children to love reading for themselves and gives them a better chance in life and a greater awareness of the world around them.
What they do
Doorstep Library is a community-focused children's literacy charity. What makes them unique is their dedication to working with children directly in their homes - in person or online. For a period of time each week volunteers can give each child the gift of time spent reading at their own pace, one to one, in a relaxed and happy way which focuses on the joy of travelling through the pages of books to any place in the world, or beyond it!. Volunteers have a bag full of books and children choose what most appeals to them. Volunteers read to them, and in time children read to volunteers and develop a love of reading for themselves. Doorstep Library works with children during the crucial years for developing literacy, from babyhood to age 11. One in four 11-year-olds leaves primary school unable to read or write properly, but trained Doorstep Library volunteers, working in disadvantaged areas of London and beyond, make a change, helping children develop the self-confidence and essential skills they need to access all the opportunities that will come their way in life.
Help a child
to change their story
No-one else does what Doorstep Library do, and their work is a little short of magical. They welcome donations to support reading with the children they currently see, and to expand their work to many more children who need help. A monthly donation will provide reading sessions throughout the year and access to hundreds of books, (some of them to keep and cherish) for a child living in or around London who needs their help. Your gift will empower a family to change their story and break the cycle of illiteracy-induced poverty.
Volunteering makes a difference
Reading for pleasure is one of the biggest predictors of success in life – more significant than your parent’s level of education or wealth. Volunteering is a wonderful way to make a positive difference. The children Doorstep Library help do better at school, and in their lives. In the 13 years they have been reading in people’s homes, they have already seen the children they read with go on to achieve amazing things. If you would like to find out more about volunteering they would love to hear from you.