From Foundation for Children's Education in Uganda to Books Open The World
The Foundation for Children's Education in Uganda was founded in the Netherlands by Gosia Arlet and Freerk Molleman in 2005. Founded as a non-profit, non-religious, and non-political organization, the Foundation grew steadily to include more activities in the Netherlands, Uganda, and in the United States. Over a short period of time, we have grown. Though our focus from the beginning has been women and children, we welcome all community members to participate in our activities.
Recently, we decided to change the name of the Foundation to Books Open the World in 2007 to reflect our desire to use these rural community libraries as centers for education, opportunity, and empowerment. Currently, BOTW sponsors six main activities: rural community libraries, adult literacy classes, a women's club, a pre-school, a tutor program for primary school children, and scholarships for girls in secondary schools.
We believe that local ownership in Uganda is vital to the success of BOTW. The library network, pre-school, literacy classes, and all other activities in Uganda are completely overseen by a local executive committee made up of constituents from the various communities. In fact, some of these activities were ideas generated by community members. Operational and financial support is provided by the executive board and teams in Gainesville, FL Durham, NH, and Davis, CA. Financial and other support comes from some small grants, but by-and-large from private donations and international researchers working in nearby Kibale National Park.
Foundation Overview