Diversity on the Bookshelf

Anti-Racist Library on Wheels

Our program for better representation of People of Color in children's and young adult literature.

Room with diverse children's and young adult literature on open bookshelves
Creating Awareness

Cultural Diversity Belongs on Every Bookshelf

Literature on the shelves of school libraries across Germany is predominantly dominated by non-diverse characters, even though our society and student body are diverse and vibrant.

Through the Anti-Racist Library on Wheels, InSL e.V. aims to raise awareness and initiate targeted programs so that diversity becomes a staple in the bookshelves of schools and daycare centers.

“All children should grow up with relatable role models, fostering a love for books and reading.”
Children holding colorful books in front of their faces
The Project

A Library Where Children See Themselves

The Anti-Racist Library is an InSL e.V. project that contributes to better representation of PoC (People of Color) and creates opportunities for children and youth to identify with literature.

With the library on wheels, InSL e.V. brings diversity directly into schools and daycare centers. It provides an opportunity to critically evaluate existing libraries and engage in meaningful conversations with students and educators.

The library serves as a starting point for tailored workshops for children ages four and up. Topics of racism and diversity are addressed in an age-appropriate manner, beginning with a closer look at one of the library's books.

MobileTemporarily in schools, daycare centers, associations, and libraries
Ages 4+Age-appropriate workshops for children and youth
MultilingualBooks and accompanying materials for all ages
Discover Together

Workshops Centered Around Identity, Diversity, and Self-Confidence

The workshops empower children and young people to explore their identity and role in the community. Stories in which every child can see themselves open up new perspectives and create child-friendly opportunities for dialogue.

Picture Book Viewing

Interactive, for example as picture book cinema or Kamishibai.

Reflection

Exercises and discussions on diversity, rights, and self-confidence.

Creative Activities

Crafts, photo activities, or collaborative poster design.

Library Review

Discovering books together and reflecting on existing collections.

Temporary Exhibition

The mobile library visits the facility for an agreed period.

Accompanying Materials

Resources for educators and teachers for further reflection.

Flexible Scheduling: Workshops typically last 45 minutes, but can also be expanded into full-day or multi-day projects. They take place in class groups or small groups and are adapted to the age and interests of the group.

Exhibition & Identification

Books as a Connection to One's Own World

The goal of the Anti-Racist Library is to give all children the opportunity to identify with literary characters and connect stories to their own lived experiences.

Materials can be displayed temporarily in schools, daycare centers, associations, and public libraries. Books and accompanying materials can be read on site and used for educational purposes.

View all books in the library
For Educational Teams

Training That Embeds Diversity into Everyday Practice

In addition to workshops for children and youth, InSL e.V. speakers can be invited in various formats for an institution's educational team. We offer professional development on anti-bias education, intercultural parent engagement, language awareness, and other diversity topics.

Request Training

Would You Like the Anti-Racist Library to Visit You?

We would be happy to advise you on exhibitions, workshops, and professional development for your school, daycare, or institution.