Libraries

We believe that libraries are essential to the promotion of curiosity, critical-thinking and creativity. We hope that library visitors will learn more about themselves, their community, and the world around them, and use this knowledge to enrich their lives and explore new possibilities.

What is a Riecken library?

Riecken libraries are dynamic centers of discovery and fun that everyone in the community has reason to visit - to read a novel, attend a crafts class, investigate crop prices, research a topic, enjoy a children's story, watch an educational video, send e-mail and digital pictures, or hold community meetings.

Building

Libraries are modest in size, simple but welcoming, and have one or two rooms, ample tables and chairs, a children's corner with colorful walls and cushions, and a computer area.

Resources

Libraries have an initial collection of 1,000 books for children, youth and adults, including novels, poetry, reference materials, and books on agriculture, health, sports, sex education, history, indigenous culture, business, and other relevant topics. Libraries also have three computers, a digital camera, telephone, radio, games, art and crafts supplies, and satellite Internet connections wherever possible.

Access

Every library guarantees:

Open entry to everyone regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic level
Free access to library resources, including books, magazines, games, and computers
A wide range of activities and programs for all ages

What does the Riecken Foundation provide?

A large portion of the costs of constructing or renovating the library building
Books, computers, and audiovisual equipment
Extensive and ongoing training for librarians and committee members
Ongoing support and promotion of a Riecken library network

What does the community provide?

A committee that includes representatives from a broad range of the community
Centrally-located land, or a building, that is legally designated for the sole use of the library
A portion of materials and labor for construction or renovation of the building
The salary for a full-time librarian(s)
Payment of ongoing expenses such as utilities and cleaning

Who runs the library?

Libraries are managed by a committee of local citizens who are professionally trained by the Riecken Foundation.

What are the responsibilities of the library committee?

To design, manage, maintain, and promote the library
To work closely with the librarian and the Riecken Foundation
To participate in programs, activities and training workshops

The Riecken Foundation supports:

Communities or small towns without a library and with a committed group of people who share our vision of a community library
Communities who want to update an existing library in accordance with the Riecken vision

The Riecken Foundation does NOT support:

School, private, government, or academic libraries
Computer centers
Individual requests for books or computers
Libraries with closed stacks, membership requirements, or fees for use

How does a community solicit a library?

Step 1: The community should form a committee and send a brief letter of interest to the Riecken Foundation explaining their interest in a library, basic information about the community and contact information (one page is sufficient).

Step 2: The foundation will respond to all letters of interest.

Step 3: When feasible, the Riecken Foundation will schedule a site visit to meet the library committee and discuss the library project.

Step 4: If the community is appropriate, the foundation will provide guidelines for a proposal, which includes a detailed budget and work plan.

The Riecken Foundation

The Riecken Foundation is a non-profit organization founded and privately endowed in 2000. The foundation is managed and run by a team located in Washington DC, Honduras and Guatemala.