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Reading specialists choose a diverse array of books that reflect the language and and the culture of a child's native language. An important part of early literacy is seeing yourself reflected in the books you read.
MORE THAN BOOKS AND BUILDINGS

Diverse books

Building a lifelong enthusiasm for reading is rooted in connection. Children search for themselves in books, in the physical and emotional attributes of characters, in the languages and customs that are familiar, and in families that resemble their own. As they pour over the pages of a book, children can also learn about languages and cultures other than their own.

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This year, The Library Foundation will help the library purchase more than 20,000 culturally specific children's books. Multnomah County Library's children's literacy specialists are searching worldwide for high-quality, culturally appropriate children's books, created by diverse authors and illustrators. Librarians use these books to connect with families, encouraging them to visit the library and take advantage of all that Multnomah County Library has to offer.

With books, materials, and programs in 20 languages, Multnomah County Library reflects a diverse array of cultures. An important part of early literacy is seeing yourself reflected in the books you read.
RUDINE SIMS BISHOP, PROFESSOR OF EDUCATION

“When children cannot find themselves reflected in the books they read, or when the images they see are distorted, negative, or laughable, they learn a powerful lesson about how they are devalued in the society of which they are a part.” 

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