Why Libros para Todos?
Libros para Todos was founded in 2013, the same year that Mexico was ranked second-to-last out of 108 countries in a UNESCO assessment of reading proficiency. In more recent national surveys, data indicates that about 30-40% of elementary school students in Mexico do not meet the minimum proficiency standards in reading, with disparities more pronounced in rural and low-income communities. (INEGI)
Although literacy rates in Mexico have improved over recent generations, there is a concerning decline in actual reading habits. In many public schools, children are seldom exposed to works of fiction, and in impoverished communities, a significant number of children lack access to books at home. In fact, nearly 40% of children in rural areas lack access to libraries or books at home compared to only 10-15% in urban areas. (INEE)
This trend signifies a troubling erosion of the art of reading, which is vital because books foster creativity, inspire new ideas, and cultivate an appreciation for literary art. Moreover, reading enhances critical thinking, promotes empathetic understanding, and improves communication skills—competencies essential for nurturing a healthy civil society and sustaining democratic governance.​
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Libros para Todos’ mission is to encourage children to develop a love for reading. Our focus remains particularly on children from low-income backgrounds and rural communities, where the need is greater.
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Since our inception in 2013, we have positively impacted over 9,000 children in the state of Guanajuato through our literacy initiatives.
How we came to be...
Libros para Todos was born in 2013 from a simple but powerful idea: to ignite a love of reading in children who have limited access to books and learning opportunities. It all started when a passionate group of readers in San Miguel de Allende decided to bring author Francisco Jiménez to our community. Deeply moved by Francisco’s heartfelt autobiography about his childhood working in California’s fields, these readers felt compelled to make a difference. They reached out to him, purchased 250 copies of his book, and began distributing them to rural schools where books are scarce and dreams feel out of reach.
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Six weeks later, a room filled with eager children from underserved communities came alive with excitement. They had the rare chance to ask Francisco questions, share their own stories, and have their books signed by the author himself. One child whispered, “This is a dream come true,” capturing the transformative power of that moment.
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That experience sparked the beginning of something much bigger. We realized that inspiring children to read isn’t just about one event — it’s about creating a lasting impact. So, we committed ourselves to long-term change. While our annual Big Read helped ignite their imaginations, we saw an even greater need to empower their teachers. In 2015, we hosted our first teacher workshop, bringing educators from rural communities together to exchange ideas and learn effective ways to foster a love of reading. This initiative has since become a cherished tradition, held bi-annually.
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Over the years, we’ve expanded our efforts: establishing pop-up libraries, offering creative writing and art summer courses, and organizing special events that keep children engaged and inspired throughout the year. Every story, every book, and every moment of connection fuels our passion — because we believe that reading can unlock a world of limitless possibilities for every child, regardless of where they come from.
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.”
Dr. Seuss
