The City of Chattanooga’s Office of Early Learning announces the official launch of "Sawubona," a first-of-its-kind triple-layered Book Bus that serves as a mobile library, a mobile safe space and a mobile family resource center, designed to support children and families across the city.
A ribbon-cutting celebration will take place on Thursday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the First Horizon Pavilion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd. The event will feature a colorful carnival-themed celebration complete with games, music, snacks and community-centered fun, all in honor of "Sawubona’s" debut.
Officials said, "Derived from the Zulu greeting, 'Sawubona' means 'I see you, I value you, you are important to me.' More than just a name, it's a promise, a deep recognition of every child and family who steps through its doors.
"Sawubona" is a warm, welcoming space on wheels, a mobile library, family resource center and safe haven rolled into one. "Sawubona’s" goal is to travel into neighborhoods not just with books, but with belonging; not just with services, but with support. It’s a place where children feel celebrated, families feel connected and everyone is reminded they matter."
"Every stop 'Sawubona' makes will spark a new story," said Jaleesa Brumfield, director of Early Learning, for the City of Chattanooga. “Each layer of the bus is intentional. It’s about showing up for our community in the most meaningful ways.”
At its core, "Sawubona" is:
- A Mobile Library, offering books, literacy events and storytelling experiences;
- A Safe Space, where children feel welcomed, respected and heard; and
- A Family Resource Hub, connecting families to vital services, support and community partners.
"This launch marks a major step forward in the city’s commitment to early childhood literacy, equity and holistic family engagement," officials said. "In addition to unveiling the 'Sawubona' Book Bus, the event will also introduce the Turn On the Subtitles campaign, an innovative literacy initiative that encourages families to enable subtitles while children watch TV, helping to naturally boost reading skills.
"'Sawubona' will travel to neighborhoods throughout Chattanooga, delivering more than just books, it delivers presence, promise and opportunity. In doing so, it directly supports the goals of the One Chattanooga Plan in advancing early childhood education, strengthening neighborhoods, bridging access gaps and investing in families. With every stop it makes, 'Sawubona' brings the city’s vision for equity, connection and community to life; one child, one story, one family at a time."