A READING schoolboy has set up a mini-library to help children who don’t have access to books over the summer holidays.
Dexter Rosier, 10, installed Dexter’s Little Library at Whitley Community Development Association’s cafe on Tuesday, August 2.
Through his social media account, he said: “Back in January, I had an idea that I wanted to share my love of reading and books.
“I love books and reading. One of my favourite trips out is a visit to Waterstones to pick out new books to read. But not every child has this chance.
“I did some research and did you know at least 400,000 children in the UK don’t own a book and one in eight schools have no library. Can you imagine not owning a book or having access to a library?”
These statistics motivated the youngster to put together a collection made up of his and eventually his friends’ old books.
They are housed in the community cafe on Northumberland Avenue on a shelf painted and designed by the ten-year-old himself.
Dexter is hopeful other young people will derive the same pleasure as he did from the books, while also promoting good mental health.
In a handwritten message left with the collection, he wrote: “I think books are magical and bring you anywhere from space to the sea.
“I really want to share the magic of books and make it available to all children.”
Dexter has made a name for himself by completing various fundraising and awareness projects for organisations such as Sport in Mind and the Royal Berkshire Hospital.
