The Mobile Librarian: Colbert Nembhard Bringing Books and Bright Smiles to Homeless Shelters

Meet the librarian who’s getting homeless children excited about reading

Colbert Nembhard: A Librarian’s Compassionate Mission to Illuminate Young Lives

Colbert Nembhard Bringing Books and Bright Smiles

In the heart of the Bronx, a man in a dark suit and a rolling suitcase strolls purposefully towards the Crotona Inn homeless shelter. This man is not a traveling salesman, but a librarian named Colbert Nembhard. For the past 25 years, he has been the manager of the Morrisania Branch Library, and on this particular Wednesday morning, he’s on a special mission.

Inside the shelter, an announcement crackles over the intercom: “Mr. Nembhard is here to read stories and sing songs to your children.” He proceeds to a small office, which serves as a makeshift library, computer lab, classroom, and community space. This is where the magic happens.

Colbert Nembhard’s mission goes beyond books; it’s about fostering a love for reading in transient children’s lives. His unique partnership with the Crotona shelter, run by St. Christopher-Ottilie Family of Services, has become a model for a citywide initiative. In collaboration with the Library of Congress, the Department of Homeless Services has created small libraries in 30 shelters for families, providing children with access to books and a chance to nurture their imaginations.

Nembhard’s sessions are more than just reading; they’re an interactive experience. He sings songs, uses props like a magical blue glove with playful monkeys, and introduces finger puppets. The children’s faces light up with joy and wonder.

For him, it’s not just about the stories; it’s about building relationships. He knows most of the children by name and strives to make them feel comfortable and at ease. Over the years, he has signed up numerous parents and children for library cards, aiming to establish a lifelong bond with libraries.

Colbert Nembhard’s journey began as a teenager in New York. After seeing an ad for a page position at the New York Public Library, he embarked on a career in library science. His belief in libraries as vital social service centers, particularly for those experiencing homelessness, led him to become a branch manager.

Librarian Gets Homeless Children Excited About Reading With Storytelling And Singing | TODAY

Recognizing that some homeless individuals might not find libraries accessible, he took matters into his own hands. He started bringing the library experience to them, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, had access to the wealth of resources libraries offer.

For the children at the Crotona shelter, Wednesdays have become synonymous with Mr. Nembhard’s visits. The sound of his rolling suitcase down the hallway sparks excitement and anticipation. His efforts transcend the books; they bring a sense of normalcy, comfort, and hope to these children’s lives.

Colbert Nembhard’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and innovation. Through his dedication, he’s proving that a simple act like reading a story can create a ripple effect of positivity, even in the face of adversity. In a world that often overlooks the struggles of homeless children, Nembhard stands as a beacon of light, showing that small gestures can make a monumental difference.

Sources: