The Sister Library Project
The origins of the IMC's "Sister Libraries" Project can be traced to 1978, when a group of teachers in Cochabamba, Bolivia began an ongoing reading and writing workshop called the "Pedagogical Experiences Workshop." In 1990, the teachers of this workshop founded the only children's library in Bolivia, naming it Th'uruchapitas, or "Cheeks of Clay," referring to the chapped faces of indigenous children living in the harsh climate of the pampas.
Impressed with the group's success, Appalachian State University Library Science Professor Linda Veltze developed a plan to add to the Library of Th'uruchapitas' small collection of books. In addition to soliciting Spanish and bilingual books from publishers and government agencies, Dr. Veltze also applied for "Sister Library" status through the White House Centennial Commission. In 2000, the IMC became the only university library in the United States linked to a South American children's library, and ceremonial plaques were presented to the Appalachian State University Library, the Library of Th'uruchapitas, the city of Boone, and the city of Cochabamba.
As part of the Sister Libraries Project, small groups of Appalachian State University students and faculty travel to Bolivia each year in a study abroad experience. Human Development and Psychological Counseling Professors Terry Sack and Al Greene developed a special component of these trips called "Operation Backpack," in which study abroad students carry several books from the U.S. to Bolivia, personally interacting with the Library of Th'uruchapitas staff and children when the books are distributed.
Multimedia Kits
Several multimedia kits are available for local groups to use in promoting or raising funds for the Sister Libraries Project. For more information on borrowing the kits, contact Margaret Gregor at gregormn@appstate.edu. Kits are also available for purchase by contacting Dr. Linda Veltze at veltzela@appstate.edu.
