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Kensington's Simple Library: A Fresh Start for Community Literacy

Update Community Spirit Shines: Kensington’s Simple Library Addresses Literacy Gaps As public libraries temporarily close their doors, the community of Kensington is coming together to embrace the joy of reading and learning through the newly opened Simple Library. This resource, founded by the grassroots organization The Simple Way, is more than just a place to borrow books; it's a lifeline for the area, aiming to elevate literacy rates and foster community connections. A Nurturing Haven for Residents Located at the intersection of Potter and East Westmoreland streets, Simple Library offers an innovative solution to the literacy crisis affecting Philadelphia. Executive Director Ed Esquivel highlights the dire need for educational resources, noting that over half of adults in the city struggle with reading and comprehension skills. “After addressing food insecurity during the pandemic, it became clear that we needed to find other ways to support our residents,” Esquivel said. The library aims to combat the staggering statistics that reveal nearly 30% of Pennsylvania’s working-age adults lack basic literacy skills—a barrier to employment and community engagement. Fostering a Love for Reading Opened just two months ago, the Simple Library provides a welcoming atmosphere for families, offering a variety of reading materials, including fiction, young adult novels, and bilingual books. Esquivel explains how the library also includes a selection of banned books—resources that provoke thought and foster discussions among readers of all ages. “We want children to feel excitement about reading,” said Katie Jo Brotherton, who was instrumental in developing the concept of the library. “Connecting readers with subjects they love is key to nurturing their enthusiasm.” During the library's operating hours, visitors can borrow books or take home free selections intended to ignite that excitement. Community Support and Engagement Community support plays a critical role in Simple Library’s success. Through generous donations from organizations like Tree House Books and various individuals, the library boasts a vibrant collection of new books instead of the well-used variety often found in low-resource areas. This freshness inspires optimism among patrons, many of whom may not have previously encountered new reading materials. Esquivel described a heartwarming scene: “Seeing a child’s eyes light up at the prospect of taking home two books resonates with our mission. We want to show the community that they deserve access to new and exciting resources.” The Future of Kensington's Literacy Looking ahead, Simple Library plans to implement programming like student book clubs during the school year, providing a structured yet fun avenue for learning and engagement among youth. The establishment of this library demonstrates the importance of community-led initiatives in addressing local needs. As literacy continues to affect employability and quality of life in Kensington, the Simple Library is providing hopeful, tangible solutions for a brighter future. In a society that often underestimates the power of reading, Simple Library is a testament to how one grassroots effort can drive significant change. As we support endeavors like this one, we nurture not only personal growth but also the collective strength of the community. To stay updated on how the Simple Library continues to evolve and support the Kensington community, or to find ways to get involved, keep an eye on local initiatives.