Koru Multicultural and Diverse Library

Refugee Reading Program aids Tucson-based refugees improve their English-language skills while maintaining their heritable pride and courage. As adults read to children in their native language and children read to adults in English, both generations benefit. Adults learn and become comfortable in English skills, enabling them to eventually aid and support their children in schoolwork. Children improve their English skills while learning about and continuing their heritable honor.

Koru provides Tucson-based refugees and asylum seekers opportunities for social/emotional development, English-language acquisition, homework assistance, multicultural learning opportunities, community gatherings, digital services, and full access to our diverse picture and chapter book collection.
Participants are provided with a safe, encouraging space in which to learn about the world and to learn about themselves and their places in it, while practically improving language skills and maintaining traditions across generations.

Refugee Reading Program builds and shifts according to community needs and input. Knowing that refugees and asylum-seekers come from around the world, Koru will continue to seek out and provide books in their native languages. As reading and language skills develop, participants can improve their own standing while also being encouraged to help others in their growth.

Koru Library is also a safe space for afterschool activities and events, arts, independent and guided learning opportunities, and a treasure trove of diverse illustrated and chapter books for youngsters and grown-ups alike. We are here for learners, those curious about the world around them. Anyone who needs help can come and receive it or be helped in attaining it.

We seek to identify sustainable current and future uses for the library that benefit the community and Tucson. As we move forward, we will acknowledge the needs and priorities of our community, both social and economic.

Without donors like you, we would not be able to operate as a nonprofit.
We count on the generosity of donors to keep our programs operational. Your donations ensure that everyone will continue to benefit from the quality instruction, enrichment, engagement, and support offered by Koru.

Open your minds, open your hearts
Thank you for your generosity and support of education, arts, and culture.

Testimonials

"I'm the dad. My kid was so happy coming home from the trip today. As soon as he got home, he ran in and went on and on, bragging about how fun it had been.
I searched for picture books and found Koru seven years ago and I think that was one of the best things I've done in my life. I appreciate you, always."

"Thank you so much for teaching not only English but such precious things as how to accept other cultures and people that are different from mine and how to reflect on myself. All those teachings are not easy things to be learnt anywhere, yet so valuable. My child and I have learned and grown so much. Thank you."

"On our first visit to Koru, my curious 1st grade son was messing around touching things and I remember your nervous eyes, ha ha. After waiting another year and sending him from 2nd grade, I still questioned myself if I was doing the right thing, wondering what if this place was only for quiet kids who like to read. What I appreciate the most is that you have your own educational philosophy, but you keep a flexible mind to accept diverse types of children, walking along with them, instead of walking ahead of them, and waiting for them. Because of you, my child has grown this much. I thank you very much for that."

"The mischievous seven-year-old boy who was touching all kinds of stuff at Koru is already graduating elementary school. If you are okay, we would love to be with Koru on and on! You have no idea how much positive impact Koru has had on our son's growth. We're always thankful."

"I think you should know that you gave me a window to diversity. You make me a better person than before. I always appreciate about it, you know that. You're doing a great job. Just, I want you to know. Thank you, always."