Nosara Love

The David Kitson Library in Nosara, Costa Rica is not just a hub for books and knowledge, but it is also a testament to the community spirit of the area. The library has a rich history, and its namesake, David Kitson, played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the local community and the English-speaking visitors who came to the area. The bridges that are now such a vital part of Nosara's infrastructure were not always there. In the past, the town was divided into two parts by the Rio Nosara, and the only way to get from one side to the other was by wading through the river. This was particularly difficult during the rainy season when the river swelled, making it dangerous to cross.

“Trying to stop development is like trying to stop the tide”

- Beverly Kitson

In the early 1980s, David & Beverly Kitson, decided to do something about this problem. They rallied the community and set about raising funds to build a bridge across the river. With the help of local businesses and volunteers, the first bridge was constructed in 1984. Kitson also worked with the Nosara community in his vacation time to establish a fishing cooperative.  As an educator he was interested in all aspects of the area’s culture and development potential.

Finally in December of 1993, his dream came true!  He retired to Nosara with his wife Beverly and began to work on the many projects that he had dreamed of for so many years.  But it was not to be. Within six months he was diagnosed with an incurable cancer and was gone by March of 1995. The David Kitson Memorial Library (Biblioteca David Kitson) was established in his memory and carries on much of the work that Dave would have done himself if he had just been given the time.

Beverly recognized that many of the local residents did not speak English, which made it difficult for them to interact with the visitors who came to the area. In response, she began teaching English classes to the locals. Her classes were held at the Nosara Community Center and were attended by people of all ages. Beverly's classes were a huge success, and they helped to break down the language barrier between the locals and the visitors. This not only made life easier for the tourists but also helped to foster a sense of community between the two groups.

Local Love

Consuelo has been the Biblioteca’s librarian since its inception, for 30+ years. She carries the history of the library and has many stories of Nosara too!

Aisha Visram has been teaching English Classes at the Biblioteca for 3 years. Aisha created The Shadow Program at The David Kitson Library for teens to learn about work based learning experiences in the Nosara community.

The David Kitson Library in Nosara is not just a library, but it is also a symbol of the community spirit and the generosity of those who call the area home. Beverly Kitson's dedication to improving the lives of the locals and visitors alike has left a lasting legacy, and her work is an inspiration to us all. The library is a testament to her hard work and the efforts of the community that came together to make it all possible. Follow the success stories and more on instagram. Jade Nosara is excited to be sending three of our employees to the English Classes this Spring.