Nestled within the welcoming embrace of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library resides a cherished space dedicated to the intellectual and cultural growth of the island’s youngest inhabitants: The Children of Our Homeland Center (COHL), affectionately known as the Children’s Room. This expansive 2,800 square-foot haven for learning and discovery was brought to life through the generous support of a grant from the Administration for Native Americans (ANA), transforming what was once a Conference Room into a vibrant and engaging environment specifically designed for children.
The COHL boasts an impressive collection of approximately 16,000 carefully curated items, catering to a wide range of reading interests and developmental stages. Young readers can explore the imaginative worlds within the pages of fiction, delve into factual knowledge through non-fiction titles, learn about inspiring lives through biographies, embark on longer literary adventures with chapter books, and be captivated by the colorful illustrations and engaging narratives of picture books. This diverse collection ensures that there is something to spark the curiosity and ignite the imagination of every child who enters the space.
A cornerstone of the Children of Our Homeland Center’s mission is the ardent dedication to preserving, promoting, and practicing the rich indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian languages and cultures. Recognizing the vital importance of connecting children and youth with their heritage, COHL features an ever-expanding selection of culturally appropriate books and resource materials thoughtfully created by local authors. These invaluable resources serve not only to enrich the lives of young people but also to provide essential support for the Public School System’s (PSS) Cultural Language and Heritage Studies teachers and students in their important work.
Beyond the walls of the Children’s Room, COHL plays a crucial role in extending the library’s reach into the wider community. In close collaboration with the Circulation Department, COHL oversees the operation and activities of the Bookmobile, a vital outreach program that brings the treasures of the library and essential educational support directly to underserved populations. This mobile library serves as JKPL’s dynamic ambassador, delivering general library services and invaluable homework assistance to children, youth, and adults residing in remote villages. These are communities often characterized by limited comprehension and speaking abilities, restricted functional literacy or informational skills, and significant challenges in accessing the main library due to a lack of or no transportation. Recognizing the interconnectedness of learning resources, the Bookmobile works in tandem with the Homework Center to provide targeted outreach homework assistance to underserved students in these remote locations, addressing the very same barriers to access.
Within the Children’s Room itself, engaging programs and activities foster a love of reading and learning. Every Saturday at 10:30 am, COHL/Children’s Room hosts delightful story sharing sessions combined with creative crafts. These interactive sessions are designed for children who are ready to sit and engage with stories and participate in simple educational activities, although younger siblings are warmly welcomed to join in the fun.
One of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year is the Summer Reading Program, which consistently draws an average of 50 enthusiastic young participants each day. Open to children aged 6 to 12 years old (with older kids also encouraged to participate), the program encourages a habit of reading by rewarding their literary explorations with small prizes and coupons. As they delve into books throughout the summer, participants also earn raffle tickets, offering the exciting opportunity to win larger prizes at the program’s grand finale.
The Children of Our Homeland Center extends its welcoming hours throughout the week, providing ample opportunities for families to visit. The center is open from Tuesday to Thursday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with extended hours on Friday from 1:30 pm to 7:00 pm, and on Saturday from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. The COHL observes closures on Sundays, Mondays, and all official holidays. For those seeking further information about the center’s diverse activities or with any questions regarding its services, the dedicated staff at the Children’s Library can be reached by phone at 670-235-7315. The Children of Our Homeland Center stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of readers, thinkers, and culturally aware citizens.