With the firm conviction that books have the power to change people’s lives, this project prescribes “curative” readings - hence 'botica' - against exclusion and marginality, the high rate of school failure in low-income families, racism, and other issues. It also provides healthy snacks to participating children and offers mediation between school and families.

Migrants and local residents.

The libraries have approximately 200 members between them. They offer books in multiple languages (Spanish, English, French, Arabic and Russian), which teach on tolerance and the values of living together and share stories from around the world. Workshops are also offered, including storytelling competitions, author presentations, reading clubs, creation-oriented activities and more. Classes are avilalable in the afternoons and after school.

Specifically, the libraries:

• offer a cultural space where migrants and the local population can interact;
• educate the population about tolerance and against exclusionary or racist practices;
• mitigate emotional problems;
• organise activities related to personal and social development;
• providing access to IT services and support.

The activities are carried out by volunteer teachers, both retired and active, and community members of both neighbourhoods.

The implementation of this project in both neighbourhoods has led to:

• considerable improvement in social inclusion;
• progress in educational aspects among the child population (improvement of the school performance, reduced absenteeism, improved social and emotional skills);
• facilitation of the integration of the young and adult immigrant population, creating a cultural space for assimilation into Spanish culture and the promotion of others, which motivates participation in cultural activities of the neighbourhood and the city;
• involvement of grassroots, local movements, including the participation of neighbourhood social collectives.

The project has managed to increase library attendance and has stimulated social interaction between various community groups and individuals. In 2018 it was granted a national award for it's activities, the “Premio Nacional the Fomento”. It has also served as a model for other projects aiming to bring migrants and local population together through cultural activities. 

The budget of the project is approximately €7 000, with 70% contributed by the municipality and 30% by private company MARNYS - Martínez Nieto S.A. Their support goes beyond financial assistance, with employees themselves involved in the project.