Book Aid International is an
NGO that exists to encourage literacy and access to
books particularly in
Sub-Saharan
Africa and the
Middle East by
distributing books to libraries and other locations that increase
community access. Book Aid International currently work in 12
countries in sub-Shahran Africa as well as in Palestine and Sri
Lanka. Book Aid International was created under the premise that
Western nations were in position to help developing countries by
donating books, but the organization operates under the philosophy
that literacy is best encouraged when donated books are targeted to
their readers.
In a recent research paper commissioned by the charity, it was
declared that the development of
knowledge societies puts those without
access to books and literacy at a distinct disadvantage, being
unable to interract adequately with society. Thus they work with
governments and local librarians to help determine the need for
specific subjects and titles. They also provide professional
training and mentorship programs to librarians in the region.
Founded in the 1950s, the organization recently celebrated its 50th
anniversary. Since August 2007, it has been directed by Clive
Nettleton, who replaced Sara Harrity.
In 2007 the
Department for
International Development ended their funding agreement with
Book Aid International, requiring them to reduce in staff and
countries they work in.They now rely on publishers for book
donations and are entirely funded by voluntary donations for
funds.
In January 2008, Book Aid International became an official
supporting organisation of
HIFA2015
Major Book Donors
Book Aid International is supported by the following publishers who
donate new books to be distributed to the countries that the
charity works in.
Countries where Book Aid International work
Official Site
Celebrity Support
In 2008 Book Aid International launched a new strategy, 'Books
Change Lives', to coincide with
International Literacy Day (sept
8th 2008). The charity plans to raise £5m over 3 years to give more
books to African countries.The campaign is supported by a number of
celebrities:
Sebastian Faulks hosted
the launch.
David Cameron,
Boris Johnson,
Dame Helen Mirren and
Alan Rickman have all donated signed books to
an auction in aid of the event.
Notes
- Harrity, 47-48.
-
http://www.http://www.bookaid.org/cms.cgi/site/our_work/countries/
Official Site
- Harrity, 48-49.
- Harrity, 54.
- Official site.
- official site
Sources
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