Support for the creation of reading spaces in seven new schools in the province of Neuquén in Argentine 

Literacy is the key for professional training and a way out of poverty. Faced with this critical challenge and the shortcomings of the Argentine school system, the Fundación Leer is developing projects throughout Argentina. In 2011, more than 1,600,000 new books were distributed and nearly 700 education projects in over 680 schools, libraries, early childhood development centers, hospitals, foster homes and detention centers for minors were created.

Neuquén province is particularly affected by poverty and its development remains precarious. The Fundación Leer has made the province a priority for rolling out its “Open Book” program. The first goal of this operation is to develop reading and writing in children to raise their overall education level. To do so, “reading spaces” have been created in which children and adults can enjoy a selection of books made available to them, either alone or in groups. The project’s second focus is to develop the involvement and motivation of the teachers by improving their pedagogical methods, especially vis-à-vis illiterate children. Last, awareness is being raised in parents and local communities on the importance of reading in the education and future of their children.

The Air Liquide Foundation is supporting this program by making reading more accessible in schools in the city of Neuquén. In this way, over 1,400 children will benefit from totally remodeled reading spaces. Since 2011, three new schools in the city of Confluencia will receive new reading spaces that will permit over 700 children to access reading.