Terse School Library

Moin Uddin is Teach For Nepal English Fellow, placed in Terse Secondary School — a public school in Melamchi, Sindhupalchwok Nepal where he spent 2 years working with some of the most hardworking, young potentials the community.

As an avid reader and writer, he often encouraged students to pick up the habit of reading early. Without access to books in his school, he brought local newspapers to class and started reading sessions.

He wanted to raise money to help set up a school library, filled with colorful books written by local authors. He believed that local stories are important for early readers. Stories about local cultures, family, values, and friendship. 

We loved the idea — and awarded a grant to help launch the project.

The school provided a room that was previously used as a storage space. Local teachers and students worked all weekend to build shelves and tables. 

Organizations like Room To Read provided us with a list of titles that were best suited to engage early readers — from phonics-based to poems. In total, more than 1,000 different titles were shelved.

The Headmaster appointed a librarian to set up internal systems so the library will be well-managed.

The library now serves more than 500 students in Terse Secondary School, with a new reading period now being introduced into every grade level. Every class will have an opportunity to visit the library at least once a week — participating in group reading and read-aloud sessions.

After a handover ceremony by Krishna the headmaster, we were left with a parting gift. A moment we’ll always remember.