Service Learning Program " 1000 Books" at the Perth Amboy Public Library

“1000 Books” completes a very successful cycle of bilingual reading and mentoring.

 “1000 Books” is a grassroots collaboration between the Perth Amboy Public Library, Casa Argentina de New Jersey and School Based Youth Services Program ( a project of the Jewish Renaissance Foundation funded by The New Jersey Department of Children and Families). This program provides an opportunity and a place for high school students to read to younger children in both English and Spanish.

While dual language exposure and bilingualism are common experiences for 95% of the children in Perth Amboy, New Jersey by the time these children reach adolescence, only about 10% of them remain fluent in both languages. Research supports Selman’s Theory on Interpersonal Understanding that bilingualism enhances executive function performance, metalinguistic awareness, abstract thinking and perspective taking.

Most children that lose their ability to speak in their native language do so because they do not have the environmental incentive to speak in their mother tongue. As a result, fewer second generation immigrants can be described as bilingual.

In the 1000 Books program, students find an environment where they can feel proud of their heritage by reading books in both, English and Spanish. “I particularly like that we are given a chance to restore pride in the community we live,” says Marialis Savinon, a program participant and high school junior at The Perth Amboy High School.

When children lose their mother's language as they learn English in school, the bond between parents and children is damaged according to Victoria I Puig from Montclair State University. 

In the 1000 Books program, children are afforded opportunities to develop a love of reading in English and Spanish, which brings pride and connection back to the community. When there are high levels of bonding and high levels of feelings of

 belongingness, as children grow, they are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. In addition, youth and children are also more likely to stay in school, and experiencing greater overall success, according to the Youth Thrive Framework developed by The Center for the Study of Social Policy.

About the Collaborators, Casa Argentina is a New Jersey based non-profit organization passionate about cultivating bilingual readers, writers, and engaged citizens. In collaboration with the Perth Amboy Public Library and School Based Youth Services Program, the 1000 Books program provides children in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, with a high school mentor who reads to them in English and Spanish, fostering a sense of belonging, love for reading, and a venue for positive youth development.

The program provides a unique and meaningful way to develop a love of reading, as well as multicultural awareness by incorporating crafts and dramatic readings.

The children love to have the high school mentors read to them in Spanish and English. They also love listening to stories that are representatives of their cultural heritage. "We know our program is having an impact when we have the children who, at the beginning would not speak in Spanish, want to learn more about their native language," says Raul Pretto, Casa Argentina President.

The program will celebrate the end of its spring cycle on March 31, 2016, from 4:00 pm to 4:45 pm at the newly renovated Perth Amboy Public Library, which is located at 196

 Jefferson Avenue, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861. During this time, the high school tutors will receive their Service Learning Certificate and a scholarship.

On that day, the community is invited to participate in the final day of the spring reading cycle in a theatrical  and fun reading activity of  Dr.Seuss’ books, in  both English and Spanish.

by Jusleine Daniel, MSW, LCSW