About |
In a world where access to knowledge and educational resources can determine the trajectory of a child's future, Libraries for Kids, Int'l stands as a beacon of hope. Established in 2019, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is rooted in South Carolina, USA, and is dedicated to transforming the educational landscape for underserved primary school students in Africa, specifically in Kenya. With an ambitious vision and a passionate team of volunteers, Libraries for Kids, Int'l is on a mission to create libraries in rural primary schools across Africa, fostering a love for reading and learning among children who need it the most.
Behind every library created by Libraries for Kids, Int'l lies a story—a story of children yearning for knowledge, for adventure, and for dreams that extend beyond the confines of their immediate environment. Imagine a classroom where the walls are bare, the shelves are empty, and the only sound is that of whispered hopes. It is here that the seeds of change are planted. The organization’s first milestone is nothing short of ambitious: to establish libraries in every rural primary school across Kenya. This mission is not merely about books; it's about creating a sanctuary of learning, a place where curiosity is nurtured, and imagination knows no bounds.
In just over five years, they have achieved remarkable milestones. The establishment of 8,576 libraries is not just a number; it represents countless children who now have the opportunity to explore new worlds, acquire new skills, and unlock their potential through reading. As of December 2024, the organization has over 215,000 books en route to Kenya. This pivotal moment signifies not just the physical delivery of books but the delivery of hope, inspiration, and possibilities.
The impact of these libraries extends beyond the books themselves. Each library serves as a community hub, a space where children gather, learn, and grow together. It is a place where stories come alive, fostering a love for literature that can transform lives. By mid-2025, Libraries for Kids, Int'l aims to establish approximately 10,000 libraries, bringing the gift of reading to even more children. Every book shipped, every library established, brings us closer to a future where education is accessible to all, regardless of their background.
At the heart of Libraries for Kids, Int'l is a dedicated team of volunteers who selflessly devote their time and energy to this noble cause. Operating on a volunteer basis, the organization embodies the spirit of community and collaboration. Each volunteer brings their unique skills and passion, working tirelessly to ensure that children in Kenya have access to the resources they need to succeed. This collective effort is a testament to the power of grassroots movements and the profound impact that individuals can have when they come together for a common purpose.
While the organization has one paid employee, funded through private donations, the majority of the work is driven by the unwavering commitment of volunteers. Their stories are woven into the fabric of Libraries for Kids, Int'l—stories of individuals who have traveled across oceans, who have raised funds, and who have advocated for the right of every child to learn. Each volunteer's contribution is invaluable, reinforcing the idea that change often starts with a single act of kindness.
As we reflect on the journey of Libraries for Kids, Int'l, we are reminded of the pivotal role that education plays in shaping the future. The children of Kenya, like children everywhere, possess dreams, aspirations, and the potential to change the world. However, without access to books and educational resources, those dreams can remain just that—dreams. This organization is not merely about creating libraries; it is about empowering the next generation to believe in themselves and their abilities.
We invite you to join us in this mission. Your support makes a difference in the lives of countless children. Whether through volunteering, donating resources, contributing financially, every action counts. Together, we can amplify the voices of these children and ensure that they have the tools they need to succeed. Imagine a world where every child has a library at their fingertips—a world where knowledge is not a privilege but a right.
As Libraries for Kids, Int'l looks to the future, the horizon is filled with promise. The organization envisions a day when every rural primary school in Africa has a library—a place where children can immerse themselves in books, explore new ideas, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning. With the support of individuals and communities, this vision is not just a dream; it is an attainable reality.
In conclusion, this is more than a nonprofit organization; it is a movement fueled by hope, determination, and the belief that every child deserves access to education. The impact of their work resonates far beyond the pages of a book.