Ibu Rita’s Home Library

This is story about a woman who has a dream for a better future for the kids in her village, in her nation.

This is a story about Ibu Rita. She is a dedicated educator. A passionate and caring person. One awesome librarian.

When I went to see her library and donate some computer items on behalf of my school, I got a chance to sit down with her and ask her questions. I cant believe all this time, the past 3 years I never knew that much about her library. Just listening to her speak with such compassion for the children that come to her library makes me proud to know her. This is a special place for the kids. It is obviously a very special place for her.

I first met Ibu Rita 3 years ago, she was our school’s librarian. I had no idea of her personal ambitions or her contribution to the community. Her story really inspires me to do more to help others. and to empower me to take action. I share with you and challenge you to reflect on what action you are taking to make our world a better place to live. I had the opportunity to chat with her a few months ago. I was extremely moved by her story.

Ibu Rita opens her library (read- her house) to those who want to read to learn, and learn to read. Ibu Rita’s  students are plenty, over 100 from the surrounding area in her ‘kampung’. Her students come to her library to read and borrow books-for free. Yes, for free. In fact everything the library has, including the building, came from donations and mostly from her own pocket. Her students come to her from impoverished homes. These are disadvantaged kids. Some families cannot afford to send their children to school. Others are dropouts. Kids from broken homes. Some children have special needs. There are a few deaf children, Ibu Rita has been learning sign language to communicate with them. It is about connecting with people and she is superlative at it.

So on went our chat, this is the side of Ibu Rita I did not know. Until now.  She went on to tell me about how it all began, with and idea, a few books and a few kids in a localised area. How it began with a passion to help others. More than 10 years on, word has spread and kids come from far away. To read. Something I take for granted every day. Pick up a book. Read. It seems like such a simple ‘right’.  One challenge that Ibu Rita faces; older kids  that come to her library and cannot read. Yet.  This saddens her. She lamented on the future of her nation. This really made me think. She takes these children in.  Helps them to love books and literature.  Helps them connect. To appreciate. Perhaps most of all she offers a safe and comfortable place to relax, be a kid and enjoy. Learn.

Of course Ibu Rita has witnessed the fruits of her labour. Some ‘ex students’ come back, and bring their own kids to read. Some contribute and volunteer. Her library has expanded. She has helped countless children help themselves.

I am honored and humbled to call Ibu Rita is my friend. I can learn so much from her, someone who is always thinking of others.Someone is taking action by

creating a better world.

You can see Ibu Rita’s Home Library Facebook page here:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rita-Home-Library/265544070141161

Thanks for inspiring me!