"To ensure that every child becomes a reader for whom reading is an integral interest, providing them with Palestinian, Arabic, and international literary works that are enjoyable, artistic, and meet agreed-upon standards of form and content—focusing on the child’s interests away from preaching and didacticism, and using language appropriate for various age groups."
In harmony with this vision, and recognizing that children’s literature is a cornerstone in developing national identity and positive values among Palestinian children—as well as its vital role in the educational process—the Palestinian Ministry of Culture established the Children’s Literature Resource Center in 1997. The Tamer Institute for Community Education was chosen as its host to develop all sectors related to children’s literature in Palestine.
Tamer Institute views the Resource Center as its backbone and the incubator for its children’s literature projects. It hosts regular residencies, seminars, and workshops for writers, illustrators, editors, and librarians. As such, it serves as the vital link between the Institute and the Palestinian community, providing the bulk of direct services to those involved in children’s literature.
Furthermore, the Resource Center is the primary engine of the National Reading Promotion Campaign. It acts as the hub connecting Tamer Institute with other community-based, non-governmental, and governmental organizations. Through the center, communication is maintained with these institutions to invite them to participate in Reading Week activities. Additionally, it serves as the supplier of the latest publications in children's literature, consistently providing these works to children's libraries across Palestinian cities, schools, clubs, and charitable societies.
Target Groups
- Producers and Users of Books: All groups involved in book production and the promotion of reading.
- Library Visitors: Patrons of children's libraries.
- School Children: Students across various levels.
- Librarians: Professionals working throughout Palestine.
- Educational Staff: Teachers, supervisors, and school principals.
- Creatives: Writers and illustrators.
- Publishers: Local and regional publishing houses.
- Researchers: Scholars focused on childhood and literature.
- Universities: Both students and faculty members.
Objectives
- Promoting the culture of reading.
- Developing and expanding the library network.
- Enhancing the skills of librarians.
- Improving the pedagogical skills of teachers.
- Advancing the craft of children’s literature writers.
- Developing the skills of children’s book illustrators.
- Enhancing the work and output of the Publishing Unit.
Key Activities
- Capacity Building: Workshops to support relevant sectors.
- Bibliographies: Preparing comprehensive bibliographies of children’s literature.
- Book Discussions: Organized talks on children’s and YA books.
- Lectures: Presentations on research and studies in the field.
- Database Management: Building local and international databases for relevant sectors.
- Publications: Publishing "Tayf" magazine and a monthly newsletter featuring new acquisitions and activities.
- Library Support: Strengthening the network of children’s libraries in Palestine.
- Book Distribution: Selecting and distributing local and international books to community and school libraries.
- Academic Engagement: Meetings with university students on specialized topics in child culture.
- Exhibitions: Organizing book fairs and art exhibitions related to children’s books.
Collections
The center houses over ----- books, including:
- Palestinian children’s literature.
- Award-winning Arabic children’s books.
- Books recognized for exceptional illustrations and literary quality.
- Reference materials and academic resources related to children’s literature.
- Periodicals, audiovisual materials, and posters.
Email: resourcecenter@tamerinst.org