Another win for Aussie books for Zim

On the 19th of August 2018, Aussie Books for Zim (ABZ) set up another library in rural Zimbabwe at Chinembiri SDA primary school in Rusape.

The occasion had overwhelming support from both direct beneficiaries and other surrounding communities who attended the event. Two library advocates, who are members of the International Association of School Libraries, delivered a library training workshop to participants from Chinembiri SDA primary school and other 6 primary schools and 2 secondary schools. School children received library bags donated by SAGE publications, with t-shirts and stationery also donated by librarians abroad led by Dr. Boelens from the Netherlands. 

The event was graced by the local chief, education officials and community members who were excited at the prospect of receiving library books, which they know will result in improved livelihoods and future for their children. Australian-based Aussie Books for Zim’s board member Bessie Matambo, travelled to Zimbabwe for the handover of the books. In her speech, she encouraged the school to maximize use of the books and encouraged the development of a reading culture, not only amongst the pupils but also within the community.

“It was such a humbling experience for the ABZ’s team to be received with such marvellous hospitality and consummate gratitude by the Rusape community”, says Bessie Matambo. “Despite having limited resources, the local Chief went as far as having a goat slaughtered in ABZ’s honour. This reinforced the fact that ABZ’s activities are not just about books only but are about HOPE, LIFE and BUILDING COMMUNITIES”.

ABZ has to-date set up three libraries this year and in the process of setting up two more by the end of 2018. These libraries will be used as “incubators” where the impact of books on literacy will be measured and used to inform trends and direction for the next lot of libraries.