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Book Aid staff and Philemon Chebon with the 25 millionth book |
On 22nd November 2006 Book Aid International marked the occasion of its 25 millionth book donated to the developing world, at a breakfast celebration in its Camberwell, South London, warehouse and offices. At the event, Director, Sara Harrity, handed the 25 millionth book to Dr Philemon Chebon, a Book Aid International partner visiting London from the Kenyan National Library Service.
“This event is a landmark for Book Aid International” said Director, Sara Harrity: “For most of us in the UK, it's impossible for us to imagine a world where there are so few books as in sub-Saharan Africa. Yet we can all understand the huge difference a single book can make to someone's life.”
“This incredible accomplishment demonstrates the vital role that Book Aid International has been playing, and will continue to play in supporting literacy and lifelong learning in the developing world. As well as books and information from the UK - for which we are hugely grateful for the UK publishing industry's support in particular - we also provide locally grown books and information, reflecting local values and culture.“
Dr Philemon Chebon, visiting Book Aid International from the Kenya National Library Service adds: “Book Aid International's dedication to readers throughout sub-Saharan Africa has been fantastic. In Kenya, we now have a population of over 30 million, yet without support from Book Aid International, we simply don't have the resources to ensure that everyone - especially the most disadvantaged people, can access the books and information that they need to change their lives. Every effort needs to be made to support literacy in Kenya, and throughout sub-Saharan Africa, to support our economic development. Books and information are vital to underpin this, and that is why we are so grateful to Book Aid International today.”
Dr Chebon has been visiting the UK on a professional exchange with Book Aid International. The programme included training in advocacy, fundraising and communications, leadership, and IT, as well as a placement with Leicestershire Library Service. A key aim of the visit was to exchange ideas with UK librarians on encouraging the growth of a reading culture to support literacy and lifelong learning. During his visit he also selected 2,500 books from Book Aid International's warehouse for shipping for school, community and other libraries throughout Kenya.