What is Start a Library Trust? Start a Library Trust is a charitable organization in Kenya dedicated to advancing literacy and life skills for learners across Africa. We achieve this by establishing model libraries in public primary schools, capacity developing the school community on library management, and advocating for sustainable library policies and practices. Our programs are anchored on Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
How does Start a Library Work? We collaborate with schools, local communities and partners to set up sustainable libraries, providing access to books, educational resources, and literacy programs. Additionally, we provide comprehensive training for teachers on library management and conduct regular monitoring and evaluation to assess the impact of our initiatives.
Who can benefit from Start a Library’s initiatives? Our initiatives/projects primarily target underserved learners in public primary schools where access to books and educational resources is limited.
How can my school request a library from Start a Library Trust? To become a potential beneficiary, please fill out the online application form attached here. This form enables us to gauge the learners’ reading habits and academic performance, and the school’s capacity to maintain a library. While we endeavor to fulfill requests promptly, the process takes time as we raise funds for each library project.
Do you construct libraries? No we don’t. Instead we provide storybooks to schools and encourage them to designate a suitable space with shelves for the books. This signifies the school’s commitment to creating a functional library space.
How may books does a school receive? We strive to achieve a ratio of 1 child: 1 book, but the minimum amount is 1000 books per school.
Do you employ librarians? No. We empower language teachers in the schools on library management. That way, the libraries are sustainable.
Who is a Reading Ambassador? A Reading Ambassador is a passionate advocate for literacy, dedicated to promoting children’s reading habits and engaging in community outreach. Reading Ambassadors support our initiatives in various ways, including, participating in literacy activities such as Read Aloud, book clubs, and library launches. They also mentor learners during monthly book club sessions and invest their time and resources in nurturing the younger generation.
How can I support Start A Library’s work? You can support our work by volunteering as a Reading Ambassador, donating books, sponsoring a library or partnering with us to support our literacy initiatives. Visit ourGet Involved page for more information.
Can I donate books instead of money? Certainly! While book donations are welcome, we highly encourage monetary contributions as this allows us to procure locally authored, age appropriate English and Kiswahili storybooks that are tailored for primary school children and resonate better with them.
How can I get in touch with you? For any inquiries, please contact us at info@startalibrary.org or call 0716033433. We welcome your questions and feedback!
CONTACT DETAILS
Visit Us: Start a Library Trust. Njamba House Shanzu Road, off Lower Kabete Road. Email: info@startalibrary.org Phone: +254 716 033 433
