A Canadian charitable and non-governmental organization, Under the Reading Tree promotes literacy and education in developing countries through the establishment of grassroots community libraries and literacy programs. In cooperation with local partners, our goal is to provide a welcoming place for children and adults to learn and experience the joy of reading. Under the Reading Tree believes that literacy and access to information are essential tools for unlocking the imagination, for empowering the marginalized, and for bringing about broader social change - one community at a time.
Under the Reading Tree was established out of a desire to have a personal and direct role in building educational opportunities for African communities. Several of the directors have spent time in Africa, working and volunteering with teachers, farmers, government officials, peacemakers, academics and many others. These experiences have affirmed the importance of community involvement in the success of grassroots projects, and it is our goal to foster community ownership and management of each library.
We are supported by the generous donations of individuals and organizations committed to the cause of developing community libraries in Africa. Under the Reading Tree is accountable to its supporters and to those who benefit from its efforts, and the directors are ultimately responsible for Under the Reading Tree’s activities.