Home Our Poder Literacy Biblioburro, The Donkey-Powered Library Changing Education in Latin America  

Biblioburro, The Donkey-Powered Library Changing Education in Latin America  

Credit: Acción Visual/Diana Arias

In the heart of rural Colombia, nestled on the banks of the Magdalena River, lies the small town of La Gloria. Known for its fishing and palm oil production, this town is home to Luis Soriano, a humble schoolteacher with a special mission: to bring books to children in remote villages. 

Since 1990, Luis Soriano and his Biblioburro program have been changing lives. Weekly, Soriano, accompanied by his two donkeys, Alfa and Beto, travels to rural communities to deliver books. The name “Biblioburro” combines “biblio,” the Greek word for “book,” and “burro,” Spanish for “donkey.” This innovative mobile library brings literature to areas where books are scarce, providing a vital resource for both children and adults. 

Soriano’s journey began when he noticed the lack of reading materials in about 15 villages he visited. Determined to make a difference, he started with 70 books he had found in street markets and bazaars. Over the years, the program has grown significantly, thanks to media exposure and generous donations. This initiative has captured the attention of so many people around the world that there are even documentaries about it.  

Today, the Biblioburro’s non-mobile library in La Gloria boasts over 5,000 books and even offers Biblioburro Digital, providing free internet access and tutoring. 

Biblioburro Faces Challenges Too

However, the path hasn’t been without challenges. The non-mobile library struggles with insufficient shelving, broken tables, and leaks. Additionally, many children work rather than attend school, and nearby villages often lack basic necessities like running water, making reading a secondary concern. 

Despite these hurdles, the impact of Biblioburro has been profound. In 2010, CNN reported that the program had reached over 4,000 children, and countless parents and adult learners have benefited as well. Soriano dreams of expanding the collection to include more English books, promoting bilingualism, and broadening the children’s understanding of the world. 

A Glimmer of Hope

Luis Soriano’s dedication stems from his own educational experiences. He earned his degree in Spanish literature from a traveling professor who visited La Gloria twice a month. This understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural communities inspired him to leave his job as an elementary school teacher and embark on his mission with Alfa and Beto. 

The Biblioburro travels long distances, which can take more than eight hours. Soriano’s commitment to education and literacy provides a beacon of hope in a region affected by armed conflict, where attending school can be dangerous, and many children are drawn into conflict or crime. 

For more information about this amazing program, you can visit the Biblioburro’s Facebook page or official website. Through the power of books, Luis Soriano and the Biblioburro continue to fight poverty and inspire countless lives in rural Colombia. 

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