Access to books is fundamental to literacy development and educational achievement. However, in Africa, many children lack sufficient reading materials, hindering their ability to develop strong literacy skills.     

Objectives:   

• Increase access to age-appropriate and culturally relevant books for children and adults in Sierra Leone.   
• Promote literacy and a love for reading among individuals of all ages, genders, and socio-economic backgrounds.   
• Enhance educational outcomes by providing resources that support literacy development and academic success.   
• Empower communities to take ownership of their education and advocate for the importance of literacy.

  
Literacy is the foundation upon which education, personal development, and lifelong learning are built. When individuals can read and write, they are better positioned to secure meaningful employment, break generational cycles of disadvantage, and contribute positively to their communities. 
 

Individual Empowerment and Benefits: 

• Improved Job Prospects: Literacy allows individuals to understand job descriptions, qualifications, and apply for better-paying opportunities. 
• Financial Literacy: With reading and writing skills, people can manage personal finances better, making informed decisions about budgeting and saving. 
• Access to Information: Literacy unlocks access to a wealth of knowledge that can improve health, agriculture, and overall well-being. Imagine being able to read instructions on medicine or learn new farming techniques! 
• Increased Confidence: Literacy empowers individuals to participate actively in society and advocate for their rights. 

Community Development and Benefits: 

• Economic Growth: A literate population can contribute more effectively to the workforce, leading to economic growth and development. 
• Improved Healthcare: Literacy allows individuals to understand health information, leading to better preventative care and disease management. 
• Stronger Democracy: Informed citizens who can read and critically analyze information are essential for a functioning democracy. 
• Breaking the Cycle of Poverty: Education, fueled by literacy, empowers individuals and families to break free from poverty and create a brighter future. 

Literacy is not just about reading and writing; it's the key to unlocking a world of opportunity, improved well-being, and a brighter future for individuals and communities.

“Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” -Margaret Fuller 

By providing books to individuals and communities, we can unlock the transformative power of literacy and ignite a passion for learning that transcends generations. Donations of books are instrumental in fostering a love of learning and equipping them with valuable knowledge. 

Books and Literacy in Africa

• Millions of African children do not have books.  Many schools do not have a library.   
   
• African countries have some of the highest illiteracy rates in the world.    
   
• Low literacy levels are linked to poverty, unemployment, and crime

• Access to printed materials is one of the critical variables affecting reading acquisition   
   

How You Can Help 

Donate to help purchase books for schools 

Donate new and gently-used books: Storybooks, novels, dictionaries, and encyclopedias are all welcome, sparking children's imaginations and broadening their horizons. See the list below for some specific examples of accepted books.  

Please carefully note the following:

• International shipping is expensive
• We have established a process (linked below) for getting these items into the hands of families. We have done this successfully for years.
• There are shipping costs, and we need your help.  
• This cost could exceed the cost of the actual items
• Simply donating the items is inadequate and insufficient.

Your donations are welcome if you cover the shipping costs and follow our instructions below. This varies depending on your location.  
 

*** Donating from the US, Canada, South America, Australia, Singapore etc.  
North America, Australia, Singapore. etc.: How to donate books, clothes, and other items (excluding school supplies)  
 

**** Donating from Europe  
Europe: How to donate items
 

We understand that you might not be able to cover the shipping costs. If so, donate these items to an organization near you instead.

Examples of Acceptable Book Types: 

• Fiction: 
  • Adventure stories 
  • How-to books (on various topics) 
  • Nature books (weather, animals, plants, etc.) 
  • Historical fiction Folktales and myths 
• Non-Fiction: 
  • World history and geography 
  • Space exploration 
  • Ocean life 
  • Science books 
  • Dictionaries and Encyclopedias

Together, we can create a world where every child has the opportunity to discover the wonders of reading. Thank you for your continued partnership in making a difference!