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While vacationing in Nepal in 1998, “overworked Microsoft executive” John Wood had the opportunity to visit a small rural school. Disturbed by the lack of books in the school’s library, Wood emailed friends asking for old children’s books. He returned to the Nepalese school with over 3,000; in 1999 he quit Microsoft to create Room to Read.
The nonprofit group uses corporate philanthropy and in-kind donations from development agencies and educational publishers to build schools and libraries in underserved areas. While this style of charitable aid is not new, Room to Read has taken the model in new directions. From his first trip to Nepal, Wood has relied on the generosity of his colleagues at Microsoft. However, the group’s connection to the information technology sector goes beyond donations of books and cash. Microsoft has helped the group build its communications and technology infrastructure, while Google has provided assistance through Google AdWords.
More important than these corporate partnerships, Room to Read works to create educational materials and children’s books that reflect local language and culture. The Local Language Publishing program works closely with area artists and authors to create age-appropriate books. Many appear in bilingual editions, allowing students to use them as they begin learning English or other languages. The books are produced completely within countries where Room to Read works. In addition to promoting local publishing, the program recruits authors through competitions and writing workshops, helping community members find their voice.
. Historian Shae Davidson's research interests include public policy and the relationship between culture and civil society. His publications range from articles on industrial history to absurdist poetry.
While vacationing in Nepal in 1998, “overworked Microsoft executive” John Wood had the opportunity to visit a small rural school. Disturbed by the lack of books in the school’s library, Wood emailed friends asking for old children’s books. He returned to the Nepalese school with over 3,000; in 1999 he quit Microsoft to create Room to Read.