Manjushri Children’s Library
Helping Tibetan Children Discover the Joy of Reading
For Tibetan children growing up in exile, books do far more than teach reading. They carry language, identity, stories and culture from one generation to the next.
The Manjushri Children’s Library in Dharamsala creates joyful spaces where children can read, imagine and grow in confidence through Tibetan-language books and shared storytelling experiences. Alongside the library’s programmes, new Tibetan children’s books are published and distributed to communities across India and Nepal — helping ensure young readers can continue learning in their mother tongue.
5,000+
Children reached through literacy programmes
4
New Tibetan children’s books being published each year
"Reading has become an important part of my life, and I spend most of my time with books. Sometimes, I wonder how do people write such wonderful stories. I wish if I could become a writer someday."
Library visitor
Why Literacy Matters Here
Many Tibetan children in exile have limited access to engaging, age-appropriate books in Tibetan. Without strong early literacy in their own language, children can struggle not only with reading confidence, but also with maintaining connection to culture and identity.
At a time when Tibetan language and culture face growing pressure, helping children read, speak and enjoy Tibetan from an early age has become increasingly important. Stories, folktales and shared reading experiences help children feel connected to who they are and where they come from.
For young children especially, a love of reading can shape confidence, curiosity and opportunity for life.
A Place Where Stories Come Alive
Open six days a week, the Manjushri Children’s Library welcomes exiled Tibetan children into a warm and creative environment centred around books, storytelling and imagination.
Children take part in interactive reading sessions, storytelling circles, creative activities and holiday reading programmes that encourage confidence, curiosity and self-expression. The library also works closely with local schools and families, helping children build positive reading habits both in the classroom and at home.
Alongside the library programmes, new Tibetan-language children’s books are written, illustrated and distributed to schools and communities — ensuring more children can access stories that reflect their own language and cultural heritage.
The Difference It Makes
Through regular access to books and shared reading experiences, children develop stronger literacy skills, wider vocabulary and greater confidence in spoken and written Tibetan.
Just as importantly, they begin to associate reading with joy, creativity and belonging. Children are encouraged to ask questions, express ideas and connect with stories that reflect their culture and experiences.
By nurturing early literacy in Tibetan, the project is helping ensure that language, traditions and cultural memory continue to live on through the next generation.
Help Keep Tibetan Stories Alive
The Manjushri Children’s Library is helping thousands of Tibetan children in exile living in India discover the power of reading in their own language.
With your support, more children can access books, storytelling programmes and culturally rooted learning opportunities — strengthening literacy while helping preserve Tibetan language, identity and heritage for generations to come.
£22
Could help provide 7 Tibetan-language books for young readers, helping strengthen literacy skills and preserve language and culture in exile.
