To ignite young minds through the transformative power of literature, the Otto Foundation has been working tirelessly to create school libraries that provide children with access to books in safe and nurturing spaces.
Their focus on reading for enjoyment aims to improve early literacy and kindle the dreams and hopes of young learners through the wonder of books and stories.
The Otto Foundation, established by Chris Otto and his daughter, Zephne Ladbrook, in 2016, has a noble mission to enhance early literacy among South African children.
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In a country facing a literacy crisis, their efforts are incredibly important. Studies reveal that many Grade 4 learners in South Africa struggle with comprehension, emphasising the urgency of improving literacy from an early age.
The foundation places great emphasis on reading for enjoyment. Research has consistently shown a strong link between reading for pleasure and improved literacy outcomes. The foundation believes that competent readers are more motivated to read, creating a mutually reinforcing cycle of the will and skill to read.
The Otto Foundation understands that the physical environment plays a crucial role in nurturing young readers. By designing libraries that are aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, they aim to encourage children to spend more time in these spaces.
Their approach is a nonverbal way of communicating to children that their activities are valued and important.
To enrich the reading experience, the foundation continuously adds a variety of books to their libraries. They prioritise local books and authors, those with diverse characters and books in learners’ home languages. This ensures that the books reflect the lived experiences of the students and broaden their horizons.
The Otto Foundation actively manages the libraries they establish, providing training and support to librarians. Learners attend weekly library lessons, fostering a culture of reading in their schools. Additionally, each learner and teacher is registered as a library user, enabling them to take books home.
The foundation focuses on the measurable aspects that contribute to a reading culture, such as monitoring improvements in literacy through standardised tests. While many factors influence test scores, their initiatives aim to make a positive contribution to literacy outcomes.
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The Otto Foundation’s future plans include expanding their library network, partnering with organisations and sharing high-quality library resources.
One of the foundation’s earmarked projects for 2023 is the establishment of the Hope Library at Good Hope Seminary High School, which opened on Thursday, 9 November.
The project aims to create a reading culture within the school, offering learners a place to explore, dream and grow through the pages of books.
The Otto Foundation’s unwavering dedication to fostering a love for reading and improving early literacy is creating ripples of positive change among South African children.
By providing accessible, inspiring,and diverse library spaces, they are nurturing the hopes and dreams of young learners, ensuring a brighter future for all.
The journey of the Otto Foundation is a testament to the belief that books have the power to transform lives, instil hope and set young minds on a path of endless possibilities.
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Picture: Supplied