Book Aid International is delighted to announce that the millionth book of 2019 has left its warehouse in south London and is now on its way to Ghana. The shipment contained a total of 42,135 brand new books, donated by UK publishers.
So far in 2019 the charity has sent over 118,000 books to Ghana, all of which have been donated by UK publishers. 2019 is Ghana’s Year of Reading and these books are central to the celebrations. Books provided so far range from picture books for the youngest readers right through to medical and law texts to empower the next generation of professionals.
Across Ghana, these books are opening doors for readers from all walks of life. One young Ghanaian, Gideon, who today is a Chevening Scholar pursuing an MSc in Environment and Sustainable Development at University College London spoke of the reality for many people in Ghana saying:
“Thousands of people [in Ghana] are limited because they can’t crack a book open. Without books, today I’d probably be a hawker somewhere who thinks I can’t change anything. But books are universal. If you are able to grab it in a village in Ghana and somebody grabs it New York or London, you are on the same level. So they are really transforming.”
Gideon was lucky enough to gain the opportunity to read as a young man and through Book Aid International many more Ghanaians will also be able to access life-changing books in their schools and libraries. Hayford Siaw, Executive Director for the Ghana Library Authority (GhLA) said:
“Our collaboration with Book Aid International has blossomed and culminated in this smashing success, making quality and relevant books available to thousands of public library users. I must say we are privileged among all the partner countries to be achieving this milestone together with Book Aid International as Ghana is scheduled to receive the millionth book.”
Book Aid International’s Chief Executive Alison Tweed thanked everyone who made this milestone possible:
“We are delighted to have once again sent over one million books again this year. This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the support of the publishers who donate the books we send, our team of volunteers and, of course, our generous funders. We know this millionth book – and all the other books we have sent this year – will be put to very good use!”
This shipment also includes science, technology and mathematics books to add to the two STEM Study Hubs which the charity has launched with Ghana Library Authority this year, thanks to support from energy company Aggreko. Each STEM Study Hub offers secondary school pupils the books and support they need to succeed in their exams and take the first step towards a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In addition to sending books and opening STEM Study Hubs in Ghana this year, Book Aid International and the Ghana Library Authority have also opened Children’s Corners – spaces especially for children where reading can flourish – in five public libraries.
In 2019, Book Aid International has so far sent 1,025,499 books. The charity aims to send 1.2 million books by the end of the year.
Source: Book Aid International
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