Mobilizing Storytime and Literacy

Project Name: Mobilizing Storytime and Literacy
Project Leadership: Dr. Irasema Gonzalez (Principal Investigator)
Funding Amount: $15,000
Sponsor: Raul Tijerina Foundation
Project Description: The Mobile Literacy Unit (MLU) is a community outreach vehicle designed to travel across the Rio Grande Valley to provide low-income children with equitable literacy opportunities. The MLU promotes literacy and reading achievement by taking university resources into the local community, particularly targeting areas that have been historically underserved. Through the generous support of the Raul Tijerina Jr. Foundation, the MLU has been serving the community amidst the pandemic via La Hora del Cuento/The Storytime Hour (MLU YouTube Channel) and Curbside Literacy Book Fairs. The MLU provides access to library resources such as children’s books, puppets, literacy games, iPads, literacy tools, and art supplies for young children ages 0-8 years. The MLU supports diverse projects aligned to service learning and community engagement. To request the MLU, please visit our website https://www.utrgv.edu/mobile-literacy-unit/