In a significant boost for childhood education, a new community library dedicated exclusively to children and young adults has been inaugurated in Jos, Plateau State. The Star Education and Leadership Initiative (SELI), a non-governmental organisation, officially opened the doors of the Community Children’s Library in the Kyan Rikkos Community on December 24, 2025.
A New Hub for Learning and Growth
This pioneering facility is the first of its kind in the area, creating a dedicated and safe space designed to foster a love for reading among the youth. The library is strategically established to serve over 500 children and young people between the ages of 3 and 17 years. Access to all its books and learning resources is provided completely free of charge to children from the community.
The core mission of the project is to address learning gaps and promote early literacy. By moving beyond the traditional classroom, the library aims to nurture a sustainable culture of reading, improve academic performance, and offer a supportive environment for positive youth engagement. It represents a critical investment in the intellectual development of the community's younger generation.
Funding and Community Launch
The library project was made possible through financial support from the Reciprocal Exchange component of the Mandela Washington Fellowship. This is a programme of the United States Department of State that is administered by the international organisation IREX.
During the commissioning ceremony, the event was formally performed by Pastor Nathaniel Ekpekor. He praised the initiative and called on parents and community leaders to actively support and utilise the library for the benefit of both current and future generations.
SELI's Vision and Call for Support
Esther Mark, the Founder and Executive Director of SELI, addressed attendees at the event. She explained that the library was created to encourage intentional reading habits and provide an inclusive space where children can learn, grow, and develop positive values.
Mark also outlined an exciting roster of planned activities to keep children engaged. These include:
- Regular reading clubs
- Educational workshops and activities
- Guided learning sessions
- Community-driven programmes
She issued a heartfelt appeal for cooperation, urging parents and community leaders to protect the facility, support its programmes, and ensure children actively use it. "The success of this library depends on the collective support of the community. When we work together, we can raise children who love learning and are better prepared for the future," Mark stated.
The commissioning event witnessed strong turnout and enthusiasm, with parents, community heads, children, and well-wishers in attendance. This demonstrated a clear sense of community ownership and acceptance of the project. The SELI Community Children’s Library stands as a testament to the organisation's broader commitment to advancing education and child-centred learning in underserved communities across Nigeria.
