By Ayo Onikoyi
Healthcare professional and social entrepreneur Towunmi Coker has revealed the inspiration behind the Towunmi Coker Literary Initiative (TCLI) Library, a digital platform aimed at bridging gaps in access to literature, mentorship, and representation.
In an interview with Pot-pourri, Coker explained that her experiences living in both developing countries and the Western world exposed her to significant disparities in literary access.
“The inspiration behind the TCLI Digital Library stemmed from my experiences living in both developing countries and the Western world, where I noticed significant gaps in access to literature, mentorship, and representation. In developing countries, there was often a paucity of books and limited awareness of literature written by authors who reflected the readers’ own backgrounds and experiences. This lack of representation made it difficult for individuals, especially children, to connect with stories that inspired them or mirrored their realities.”
She further highlighted that in Western countries, Afro-Caribbean literature and works by underrepresented authors were scarce, not only in availability but also in recognition.
“There was a lack of awareness and platforms to showcase these voices. I realized the need for a centralized space that would not only provide access to diverse literature but also create opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and growth for both readers and creatives. The TCLI Library was founded as a solution to these challenges, aiming to bridge the reading gap caused by socio-economic disparities.”
On how the TCLI e-Library plans to make literature more accessible, Coker emphasized its commitment to breaking down barriers to education.
“The TCLI Library is purpose-built to ensure that under-resourced communities have equitable access to knowledge, creativity, and opportunities. High costs often limit access to quality educational resources for underprivileged communities. The TCLI Library offers a tiered subscription model, including a free membership tier that provides access to essential resources. Paid tiers come with enhanced features but remain affordable to ensure inclusivity.”
The post Why I created a digital library – Towunmi Coker appeared first on Vanguard News.
