Community Libraries
Community libraries on the countryside make books available to everybody. The books include story books for all ages, as well as dictionaries, encyclopedias, atlases and other non-fiction books. Many books are sent from the US (Davis and University of Florida), but we also buy books in local languages (Rutooro and Rukiga) and of Ugandan writers from Fountain Publishers and Femrite (Ugandan Women Writers Association). We also receive books from researchers in Kibale National Park.
On Saturdays, each of our community libraries are open with planned children's activities available. Stories may be read to a group a children, others can read books on their own, and at the end, the children have the opportunity to draw some pictures or another fun activity.
Kanyawara Library
In March 2005 we opened our first community library in Kanyawara village (near Kibale National Park, western Uganda), mainly for older children and adults. Over time we received more books and purchased books in Rutooro.
In June 2006, this library was moved to the trading center in Ibura where we also have a back room for reading and meetings.
Kigarama Library
In April 2006, we opened a library at Kigarama village. This library contains more than 10 boxes of books on a wide variety of subjects and reading levels.There are dictionaries, an atlas, story books for children and adults, books in Rutooro and written by Ugandan writers. Kigarama library lends about 30 books per day. After school it is usually busy with young readers.
Ruteete Library
In June 2006, we opened a third library in Ruteete village. This library is near two primary schools and a secondary school. Although there are still not many books there, similar to Kigarama library, many people use it.
Nkingo Library
In August 2006, we opened Nkingo Community library.This library has the largest space, with a back room where adult literacy classes are taking place. Most inhabitants of this village speak Rukiga (different language than Rutooro).
Kanyambeho Library
We opened our fifth library in Kanyambeho in July 2007. Although we were sad to see one of our pre-school teachers leave Kanyawara, Beatrice now serves as librarian at the new library.