About Libraries For Kids International
What does Libraries For Kids International do?
Libraries For Kids International expands access to books and educational opportunities for children in Africa. We raise funding to support book container projects, coordinate international shipments and work with local partners to establish and strengthen school libraries that help children develop a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Where do you work?
Libraries For Kids International currently works with publicly funded rural schools across multiple African countries. We continue to grow through strategic partnerships and country expansion initiatives that help us reach more children and communities with books and educational resources.
How do you choose the countries and communities you serve?
We look for strong local leadership, committed community partners, demonstrated educational need, secure a coordinator to oversee operations for the ability to distribute and sustain resources effectively. Every expansion opportunity is carefully evaluated with our distribution model to ensure books and educational materials can create long-term impact for students, educators and communities.
What makes your approach different from other nonprofits?
When we expand into a country, we open operations with a long term vision. We do not ship one-off projects but build the foundation needed to launch full operations and support each country with our mission. We believe books alone do not create change. Lasting impact comes from strong partnerships, local leadership and sustainable distribution systems. We work alongside schools, community organizations, ministries of education and local leaders to ensure books reach the children who need them most and are actively used to support literacy and learning.
How many books have you distributed?
Since our founding, Libraries For Kids International has distributed hundreds of thousands of books to schools in Africa. Each shipment represents more than books; it opens doors to knowledge, opportunity and a brighter future for children and families.
For donors
How is my donation used?
Every donation helps advance the mission of Libraries For Kids International by expanding access to books, literacy resources and educational opportunities for children in Africa.
Donors may choose to give in one of two ways. Gifts designated as “Where Needed Most” provide the flexibility to support the organization’s highest priorities and greatest opportunities for impact. These funds help cover full operations and distribution of books, while also strengthening the systems, partnerships and infrastructure necessary to sustain and grow our mission. This flexibility allows us to be responsible stewards of every dollar entrusted to us and to respond effectively as needs and opportunities evolve.
Donors who prefer to support our program may do so by selecting the appropriate designation when making their gift. When a donation is designated for a specific purpose, Libraries For Kids International honors that intent and uses those funds solely for our program.
We are committed to transparency and keeping donors connected to the impact of their generosity. Each month, we share updates through our monthly newsletters, impact stories featured on our website, photographs and program highlights from the field and direct communication with our supporters when applicable. We believe giving should be more than a transaction. It should be a journey that allows donors to see how their investment is creating opportunities for children in the schools we serve.
Regardless of how a gift is designated, every donation helps create greater access to books, literacy and educational opportunities while helping build a stronger future for the children and communities we serve.
Are my donations tax-deductible?
Yes. Libraries For Kids International is a registered nonprofit organization, and donations may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Donors should consult their tax advisor regarding individual circumstances.
Can I support a specific country or project?
In many cases, yes. Donors may have opportunities to support specific countries, full container projects, mission initiatives, programs or other designated efforts within our mission and when funding needs align with organizational priorities.
Why do you need financial donations if the books are donated?
While many of the books we distribute are donated, delivering them to children requires much more than books alone. Transportation, warehousing, shipping, customs clearance, logistics, technology, program oversight and local partnerships all carry costs. Like any successful organization, Libraries For Kids International requires financial resources to operate responsibly, steward donor gifts effectively and sustain long-term impact. Financial donations help transform donated books into delivered books and ensure children have access to the knowledge, literacy resources and opportunities they deserve.
How do I know my donation is making an impact?
We believe in accountability and transparency. Donors receive updates through our reported stories, project reports, photographs, videos, newsletters and/or impact communications that demonstrate how books and educational resources are reaching children and communities.
Can I make a recurring monthly gift?
Yes. Monthly giving is critical for our mission. It is one of the most effective ways to support our mission. Recurring gifts help provide predictable funding that allows us to plan future shipments, support literacy initiatives and respond to emerging opportunities. That is why we ask for $20.19, it is affordable for most and when combined – creates a mighty impact.
Can I donate in honor or memory of someone?
Absolutely. Tribute gifts are a meaningful way to celebrate a loved one, honor a teacher or mentor, recognize a special occasion, or create a lasting legacy that helps children gain access to books and educational opportunities.
Book donations
Do you accept book donations?
Yes. Please see our donation page to mail books to our book distribution partners.
What types of books are most needed?
We are most often seeking children’s books, early readers, chapter books, young adult literature, reference materials, educational resources and age-appropriate nonfiction that support literacy and lifelong learning.
Can schools, libraries and publishers donate books?
Yes. We welcome partnerships with schools, libraries, publishers, corporations, faith-based organizations, and community groups interested in supporting literacy through book donations. Please see our donation page to mail books to our book distribution partners.
What happens to donated books after they are received?
Donated books are reviewed and screened, sorted, organized and prepared for shipment. Books are then screened a second time through our sorting process in Africa, then distributed through our network of local partners, schools and literacy initiatives to ensure they reach children and communities where they can have the greatest impact.
Partners and stakeholders
How can my organization partner with Libraries For Kids International?
We welcome partnerships with schools, nonprofits, foundations, corporations, faith-based organizations, government agencies, and community groups that share our commitment to literacy, education and expanding access to books. Please email: books@libraries4kids.org.
Do you work with Ministries of Education and government agencies?
Yes. Collaboration with ministries of education, local governments and educational leaders helps strengthen programs, improve sustainability, and align our work with educational priorities within the countries we serve.
What is a Container Project?
A Container Project is a large-scale shipment of books and educational resources delivered to a country through coordinated logistics and local partnerships. These projects often support rural public schools.
How do local partners support your work?
Local partners serve a critical role in identifying needs, coordinating logistics, supporting distribution, maintaining relationships with schools and communities, and helping ensure books are used effectively long after they arrive.
Schools and communities
How can a school request books?
Schools and educational institutions may submit requests through Libraries For Kids International or through approved country coordinator. Requests are reviewed based on mission alignment, need, available resources, educational impact and partnership opportunities.
How can a country request expansion?
Organizations, government officials, educational leaders, individuals and community stakeholders may submit a country expansion request through our website. Requests are evaluated based on mission alignment, educational needs, local leadership, logistical readiness, sustainability and the potential for long-term impact.
How are schools selected to receive resources?
Schools are selected through a combination of factors including demonstrated need, existing resources, local partnerships, geographic reach and the ability to effectively utilize and sustain the materials provided.
What happens after books arrive?
The arrival of books is only the beginning. Local partners oversee distribution, container project development, community engagement and ongoing support activities. Our goal is to ensure books become active tools for learning rather than simply donated materials.
Questions from Africa
Can a school qualify if it does not have a dedicated library room or trained librarian?
Yes. A dedicated library room or trained librarian is not the only way to encourage a reading culture. Schools can explore practical ways to organise their books and make them accessible to learners within the space and resources available to them. Through our B.O.O.K. Club Program and V.O.I.C.E. Club Program, schools should encourage learners to read, discuss books and develop an interest in reading.
Can a school apply without an email address or reliable internet access?
Yes. We recognise that some schools, particularly those in remote and underserved communities, face challenges accessing reliable internet services. Schools experiencing these challenges should contact Libraries For Kids International to enquire about available application and communication options. Alternative application methods should be confirmed with the organization before submitting a request.
Can schools request books that suit specific grades, reading levels, subjects or languages?
Yes. Schools serve learners with different ages, reading abilities, interests and educational needs. When applying, schools should provide accurate information about their learners to help inform book allocation and programme planning. The availability of subjects, languages, reading levels or titles depends on the books available for distribution.
Can a school reapply if it was not selected in an earlier distribution? For instance, a private school in a rural region?
Libraries For Kids International serves public rural schools. Public schools that were not selected in a previous distribution may contact Libraries For Kids International to enquire about future opportunities. Previous applications do not guarantee selection in a subsequent distribution, as support depends on programme priorities, available books and distribution arrangements. Schools should ensure that their information is up to date and follow the current application requirements.
Will schools or learners be charged any fees to receive or use donated books?
No. Libraries For Kids International provides donated books to support children’s access to reading materials and encourage a reading culture. Schools are encouraged to own the books and use them to advance reading culture among their learners.
Can learners borrow donated books to read at home or during school holidays?
This is at the discretion of each school. Books are stamped Libraries For Kids International, NOT FOR SALE and when they are delivered to the school, they become the school’s property. Access to books beyond the classroom can help children develop independent reading habits and enjoy reading outside formal lessons. Schools are encouraged to consider practical arrangements that allow learners to access books regularly while ensuring that the books remain available for continued use. Home borrowing and access during weekends or holidays depend on the school’s arrangements and applicable programme requirements.
What should a school do if books arrive damaged, are missing or are unsuitable for its learners?
The school should document the issue with photos and videos and contact Libraries For Kids International through its established communication channels – email: books@libraries4kids.org.
Where possible, the school should retain the delivery records and note the number and condition of the affected books. This information can help the organization review the concern and advise on the next steps. Replacement books are subject to availability and confirmation by the organization.
Can individuals and businesses in Africa support the programme?
Yes. Individuals, businesses, publishers, community organizations and other prospective partners can contact Libraries For Kids International to discuss ways of supporting children’s access to books and reading opportunities. Depending on programme needs, potential contributions may include financial support, suitable books, logistics or other resources. Prospective supporters should confirm the available contribution methods and partnership arrangements directly with the organization.
Are donations by individuals and businesses eligible for tax relief in Kenya?
The tax treatment of donations depends on the applicable your country’s tax rules, the status of the recipient organization, the nature of the contribution and the relevant documentation. Individuals and businesses considering a contribution should confirm the applicable treatment with the organization and, where necessary, your country’s Revenue Authority or a qualified tax adviser. Donors should not assume that a contribution qualifies for tax relief simply because it supports education and verification is the responsibility of the donor.
How can schools and parents report suspected misuse of donated books?
Schools, parents and other stakeholders should report concerns about donated books through Libraries For Kids International’s official contact channels. Where possible, the report should include relevant details, such as the school involved, the number of books affected, and a description of the concern. The organization can then review the information and advise on the appropriate next steps. A confidential reporting route should be used where one is available.
Can parents decline permission for their children’s photographs or stories to be shared with donors?
Children’s participation in reading activities should be distinguished from permission to publish their photographs, videos, names or personal stories. Our V.O.I.C.E. Club provides an opportunity for children to share their reading experiences and perspectives, but any sharing of identifiable information should follow the organization’s applicable safeguarding, consent and privacy procedures. Parents and schools should seek clarification about the relevant consent arrangements before information is shared publicly.
How does the programme measure changes in children’s reading habits over time?
Libraries For Kids International encourages reading through its B.O.O.K. Club and seeks feedback from learners through its V.O.I.C.E. Club. These programmes provide opportunities for children to engage with books and share their experiences, interests and reflections. Staff, donors and supporters of Libraries For Kids International who travel to the countries where the programme operates also visit a few schools each year, providing opportunities to meet learners and educators and observe how donated books are being used.
Donated books are stamped as part of the book-preparation process, and the programme uses a planning ratio of one book for every two students, this distribution model was implemented when the organization hired its first CEO in 2024. Feedback from schools and learners can help the organization understand how books are being used and identify opportunities for improvement. Measuring changes in reading habits or literacy levels more comprehensively requires appropriate evidence collected over time.
Donor visits, the V.O.I.C.E. Club and additional support
Will our school receive money when donors visit, or enroll in the voice club, or send photographs, videos to Libraries For Kids International?
No financial payment should be expected because a school is selected for a donor visit, or is enrolled in the V.O.I.C.E. Club, or has submitted photographs or videos or written feedback to Libraries For Kids International. Donor visits provide opportunities for donors to meet learners and teachers, see how donated books are being used and learn about the school’s reading activities. The V.O.I.C.E. Club provides an opportunity for learners to share their reading experiences, thoughts, creativity and feedback about books. Its purpose is to encourage children’s voices and help the organization with the required feedback and data point to continue their mission successfully and understand delivery experiences. Certain feedback is required and some additional feedback helps Libraries For Kids International understand how donated books are being used and what learners experience through reading. Schools and learners should participate because they wish to share their experiences, not because they expect financial rewards.
Can children whose photographs, videos or stories are shared with donors receive additional support?
Children may benefit from the opportunities created by the programme, including access to donated books and participation in reading activities. However, having a photograph, video, drawing, letter or personal story shared with donors does not automatically qualify a child for additional assistance. Any separate support would depend on the availability of resources, established programme priorities and appropriate organizational approval procedures.
Can a donor choose to support a particular child or school after a visit or after seeing their story?
Donors may express interest in supporting a school or a reading initiative they learn about through the programme. Any proposed additional support would need to be discussed with Libraries For Kids International and assessed through the organization’s established procedures. Donors should not make promises directly to children, and any arrangements must protect children’s welfare, dignity, privacy and best interests.
Does a school have to host donor visits or share photographs and videos to continue receiving support?
Schools should confirm the programme’s applicable participation and reporting requirements with Libraries For Kids International. Donor visits and feedback activities help the organization understand the use and impact of donated books, but children should not be pressured to appear in photographs or videos. Any sharing of identifiable images or stories should follow the applicable consent and safeguarding procedures.
Are children who participate more actively in the Voice Club more likely to receive additional books or other rewards?
V.O.I.C.E. Club participation is intended to encourage children’s expression, creativity and engagement with reading. Participation or the amount of feedback a child provides should not be presented as a guarantee of additional books, prizes or other assistance. If the organization introduces a specific award or support opportunity, its eligibility criteria and conditions should be communicated clearly in advance.
Why does Libraries For Kids International ask schools for feedback if it does not pay schools or children for it?
Feedback helps the organization learn whether donated books are impacting learners, how schools are using them, and what they experience differently now having access to books. Through the B.O.O.K. Club and V.O.I.C.E. Club, learners and educators can share their experiences, feedback and suggestions. This information helps improve future book distributions and reading activities not only for your school but children across our operational countries in Africa. Feedback is valuable because it helps the programme learn and improve; it should not be treated as a requirement to provide personal stories or images in exchange for financial benefits.
Transparency and accountability
How do you measure impact?
We measure impact through books distributed, schools reached, communities served, partnership development, library growth, literacy engagement, post reporting, data, testimonials, surveys and other data an analytics and indicators available with funding that help us understand how educational resources are improving opportunities for children and learners.
How is Libraries For Kids International governed?
Libraries For Kids International is governed by a Board of Directors responsible for organizational oversight, financial stewardship, strategic planning and ensuring the organization remains focused on its mission and values. Would you like to join our board? Email: laura.winkel@libraries4kids.org.
Where can I find your annual reports and financial information?
Annual reports, organizational updates and other transparency-related documents are available through our website and our financial transparency request form. We are committed to providing donors, partners and stakeholders with clear information about our work, accomplishments and stewardship of resources. Find our request form here.
