Reading with MOLLY: Evaluating reading gain from a mobile library intervention in a low-income neighbourhood

In a constantly information-saturated, technologically-mediated global world, a strong foundation for reading is essential for lifelong learning. At the same time, with widening income and educational gaps between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds, there are concerns with how to better ensure equitable access to reading resources and opportunities.

Internationally and in Singapore, children from low-income homes tend to perform below their advantaged peers due to a combination of factors, including a lack of access to literacy-rich environments and role models. Community efforts to close the reading gap may include book gifting and weekly or holiday reading programmes. Within Singapore, one such initiative is MOLLY, a mobile library bus which serves various Singapore neighbourhoods.