The Hester J Hodgdon Libraries for All Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, supports multiple educational and literacy programs in the Nicaraguan town of San Juan del Sur and the surrounding communities. These include a vibrant lending library, complete with books for all ages, a computer lab and 3D printer center, and space for educational programs; a bookmobile service which visits 37 local communities on a rotating basis; and multiple satellite libraries. Our Library in Box program further enhances access to books in Central America.
We invite you to explore these and our other services and opportunities.
Hester J. Hodgdon Libraries for All Foundation
Formed in 2003 to support the San Juan del Sur Biblioteca, the HJH Foundation has expanded its mission to promote literacy and sustainable lending libraries in Nicaragua and Central America.
San Juan del Sur Biblioteca
The first lending library established in Central America offers a suite of services to the community including a collection of over 12,000 books, a media room, and educational and public health activities.
3D Printer Program
The 3D Printer Makerspace installed in 2019 in the San Juan del Sur Biblioteca supports the needs of local businesses and the community and serves as a teaching & learning hub in 3D printing technology.
Mobile Project
The Mobile Project visits 37 communities, bringing books, education, and public health services to the area. It serves as a vital link between rural communities and the town of San Juan del Sur.
Library in a Box Program
Recipient groups or individuals receive a seed collection of 50-100 books, a training packet, and materials for library based activities at cost. This program further enhances access to books in Central America.
Satellite Library Program
In collaboration with Opportunity Tree International, the HJH Foundation has established stationary mini-libraries that reside in some of the rural schools served by the Mobile Project.
Rotary International
The HJH Foundation and the Biblioteca staff were among the founding members and continue to provide leadership for our Rotary club. The Four Way Test is a Rotary motto that we have applied to our vision.
Service Learning Programs
The HJH Foundation’s service learning programs include: university credit courses, mission trips, family and youth trips, and Rotary International service projects.
GRIP
This program offers young people a gap year service learning experience. The focus is on building intercultural relationships and enacting sustainable projects to strengthen communities.
Volunteering
Volunteer opportunities include working with the SJDS Library, joining staff on the Mobile Project, and assisting with educational and literacy activities in the main and Satellite libraries.