Chattanooga, TN – The City of Chattanooga’s Office of Early Learning is officially launching Sawubona, a groundbreaking triple-layered Book Bus designed to serve as a mobile library, safe space, and family resource center for children and families across the city.

A ribbon-cutting celebration will take place on Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the First Horizon Pavilion (1826 Reggie White Blvd). The event will feature a vibrant, carnival-themed atmosphere with games, music, snacks, and family-friendly fun to mark the debut of this first-of-its-kind initiative.

Named after the Zulu greeting “Sawubona,” which translates to “I see you, I value you, you are important to me,” the Book Bus aims to be more than just a vehicle—it’s a moving promise of recognition, care, and connection. Each visit to a neighborhood brings not only books but also belonging and support for the families it reaches.

“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.”

The Sawubona Book Bus features three core components:

  • Mobile Library: Equipped with books for all ages, storytelling sessions, and literacy-based events.

  • Safe Space: A child-centered environment designed to foster respect, safety, and emotional well-being.

  • Family Resource Hub: A mobile support system connecting families with community services and essential resources.

The launch event will also introduce the city’s new Turn On the Subtitles campaign, an innovative literacy initiative that encourages families to enable subtitles while children watch television—an evidence-based practice that can help improve reading skills naturally and effectively.

The debut of Sawubona marks a significant step in Chattanooga’s commitment to early childhood literacy, equity, and holistic family engagement. As the Book Bus begins its journey through the city, it promises to create meaningful impact, one neighborhood—and one story—at a time.