The Haiti Projects’ Community Library is the first-ever Maker Library in Haiti and was made possible by a generous donation from the Kellogg Foundation, the estate of Ellin Smalley, the Hershey Foundation, and Jean Paul Valette and is officially titled “The Haiti Projects Community Library in memory of Ellin Smalley.
The new Library is a 10,000 square foot facility and boasts an expanded computer lab, an multipurpose room for lectures, classroom spaces, traditional library space, a cyber cafe and a maker space with tools and equipment. The new Maker Library is a signature building that allows for community building, distance learning and children’s programming. Consider supporting our Library today by visiting the DONATE PAGE.
The Library is located in the center of Fond des Blancs and was founded to provide educational and literacy opportunities to the local community. Currently the Library provides books in English, French and Haitian Creole; adult literacy programs; youth after-school programming; workshops in theater and writing; and organized weekend programs for children. A Cybercafé offers an important link to the world beyond Haiti. The Library also provides a gathering place for cultural understanding and discussion.
The library is the only public lending library and the only public Internet access in an area of over 100,000 people. The community library boasts: