Hello, Story Sunbirds!
We’re realigning ourselves and will have more news to share soon about our upcoming goals. Today, we’re sharing information about a campaign on which we’re partnering with the nonprofit IBBY, also known as the International Board on Books for Young People.
Two IBBY Palestine libraries were established in Gaza in 2008, one in Rafah, one in Beit Hanoun. The libraries were second homes for children. Now, they have lost both: their homes and their library.
From one of the librarians, Abla (paraphrased in parts):
The library was the warm place for many children to express their talents and creativity. When the library started, it was a small room. The number of books was small but ... it grew and developed ... it was bombarded and destroyed. We rebuilt the library, with equipment and furniture.
Before this genocide we had almost six thousand books, among them scientific and medical encyclopedias. The activities of the library were varied, the educational and cultural aspects, borrowing books, internal and external borrowing ... drama, theater, popular games, heritage, dancing. There was emphasis on the psychological aspect, because our children are always in need of stress-release activities.
We implemented many psycho-social activities. We would [take] day trips to heritage places in Gaza and parks.
As of 2024, both libraries have been bombed. One is completely destroyed. The other is severely damaged. Now, everyone connected to the libraries is struggling to get food, water, clothing, and daily essentials for survival. The Story Sunbirds and IBBY are partnering to raise money for a LIBRARIES ARE HAVENS campaign to try to help deliver aid to the librarians, kids, and communities.
GOAL: Fundraise via IBBY Children in Crisis for IBBY Palestine with a goal of $10,000 USD by June 1, 2025.
PURPOSE: To raise money for humanitarian aid: food, water, tents, clothing, hygiene essentials. To support the library communities of Gaza with dignity.
RECIPIENTS: Funds will support everyone connected to the 2 IBBY libraries of Gaza — children, librarians, and families—who experienced them as communities and havens.
We have a resource document available for download to use with kids in libraries, schools, or other settings.
Please give if you are able. And please help us spread the word!
Fatima in the video is one of the librarian’s daughters.
The artwork for this campaign was created by Yasuko Toda. Thank you, Yasuko!
Such a great initiative, and wonderful list of resources!