Hi, I'm Susan. I'm a former children's librarian and, with my husband, one of the founders of The Global Baby.

Almost a year ago, as my husband and I dreamed about a business that would allow us to travel internationally and make a positive impact of some kind, we started to imagine bringing some of the incredible, unique goods created around the world home to share with other Americans. But where would we focus our efforts? I dove into research, one of my favorite activities, and discovered a lack of shops focused on fair trade and ethically produced children's goods. Although we have no children of our own, we have many beloved children in our life, and we've bought our fair share of baby gifts over the years. Plus, I spent many years working as a children's librarian, focused on early literacy, children's literature, and play. So, this was an area close to both of our hearts.

My research uncovered an unbelievable array of fair trade organizations and companies, as well as other businesses dedicated to social responsibility and environmental stewardship, producing adorable children's goods. Everything from stuffed animals and wooden toys to organic cotton clothing, knit hats, and nursery decor. We wanted to share it all, inspiring others to incorporate a global treasure or two into the lives or playrooms of the children they love.

As the idea for The Global Baby developed, I knew that there was one important missing piece—books. Children's books are in my blood. My grandmother was a kindergarten teacher, my mother collects children's books, and I am a book editor and former children's librarian. It was extremely important to me to connect the products that we chose to sell with picture books—including ones that tell the stories of children from the countries our makers come from. In the interest of sharing literacy with both our gift recipients and other children around the world, we also wanted to donate a portion of our profits to global literacy organizations.

Over the years, I've accumulated a considerable amount of information related to children, education, and play. As I dreamed about what The Global Baby could become, I realized just how much I wanted to pass on that information to others who spend their time with young children. How could I sell toys without sharing what I've learned about play? How could I choose books for the shop without recommending other books that families could check out from their local library? It seemed like a blog that was tied to both our shop and my interests in early child development, play, and children's literature was the perfect addition to the project.

Between the blog, the shop, and social media, I hope that The Global Baby is just exploding with inspiration for you. Even if you're not ready to make a purchase from the shop, please visit us for book recommendations, eye candy, and helpful tips.