We are thrilled to have won a new award from USAID/ASHA to transform the Mumuni Nabukuyu Library, which opened its doors to rural children in 2014. We will be expanding the collection, upgrading existing buildings and makerspace infrastructure, constructing an early learning center, teen empowerment center, performance space and a dormitory. But most exciting is our introduction of cutting-edge technology including Starlink satellite high-speed internet access, computers and other digital equipment, supported by reliable solar power and battery storage.
Establishing a model rural library is significant because it creates an adaptive, learning and teaching ecosystem that is uniquely equipped to address the lives and needs of rural children and youth in Zambia, which are very different from those of young people in urban environments. Starlink internet and well-trained librarian facilitators will instantly open the whole world to isolated rural children!
The Mumuni Model Library even has a distinctive stewardship structure, as the land the library is located on is provided by traditional authorities, to whom the library will be answerable. Work on this library will commence in 2023.
Lubuto's innovative work recognized by Zambian colleagues
Fatima Demohey accepts the "Innovative and Creative Institution" award on Lubuto's behalf from Mwikisa Mwikisa, lecturer at the Zambia Information and Communications Technology College
Lubuto was the inaugural recipient of the "Innovative and Creative Institution" award established by our colleagues at the Library Association of Zambia (LIAZ) to recognize outstanding services, programs and impact of Zambian libraries. Nominated by Parliamentary librarian Aggie Mwanza, the prize was accepted on behalf of Lubuto by Fatima Damohey at the LIAZ Annual General Meeting in Livingstone on 9 September 2022.
Our staff is thrilled about this recognition of the quality of our innovative library services for children from our Zambian colleagues. Lubuto has been engaged in showing how important libraries are for Zambia's future generations -- working hand in hand with our colleagues in LIAZ and its predecessor Zambia Library Association, at the University of Zambia, Copperbelt University and Evelyn Hone College -- for decades.
Lubuto nominated again for prestigious Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award
We are greatly honored to be nominated for the 14th time for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. This award was created in 2002 by the Swedish government to "promote every child's right to great stories." Click here to see the list of nominees for 2023 and learn more about the award. Zambia's long and close relationship with Sweden makes the possibility of Lubuto being an ALMA laureate even more meaningful.
Support Lubuto while you shop
Want to give back this holiday season? Did you know that you can support us with every purchase you make on Amazon? Please go to https://smile.amazon.com/ and select Lubuto Library Partners as your charity. It doesn't cost you anything, but Amazon will donate part of the profits to Lubuto!
