September 2026 Newsletter

From the Chief Executive Officer

Laura Winkel, chief executive officer, in a portrait with dark hair, wearing a tan jacket against a black background

From Dreams to Scale

This quarter proved something important: when vision meets partnership, impact accelerates.

One milestone stands above the rest. This year, Libraries For Kids International expanded into Uganda, reaching 99,121 children with access to books and school library resources. Behind that number are children discovering new ideas, teachers gaining valuable tools, and communities investing in a culture of literacy and opportunity.

We also continued expanding our reach in Kenya while exploring future opportunities across East Africa. At the same time, strategic partnerships allowed us to multiply resources and increase impact faster than we could alone. A recent matching opportunity doubled a $15,000 investment into $30,000 of program impact in less than 30 days. Those containers moved from Mombasa ports to our warehouse Aug. 20. In the coming months, we will share the stories and excitement from schools in Machakos County.

As we enter Q4, our focus is clear: Scale what works, strengthen partnerships and position Libraries For Kids International for its next stage of growth with funding. The story of this quarter is not about containers, books or events. It is about momentum becoming movement and movement becoming measurable change for the children we serve.

Thank you for helping us build what comes next. What began as a mission to place books in children's hands is increasingly becoming a catalyst for regional partnerships. In Q4, we will explore new opportunities through discussions with Zambia's Ministry of Education and the Director General of Library Services, positioning Libraries For Kids International for thoughtful and sustainable growth across Africa.

Laura Winkel Chief Executive Officer

Our Impact: A Love of Reading Grows at Uganda's Otoba- Labori Primary School

A pupil in a red school jumper reading an illustrated book at his desk, with other pupils reading behind him

At Otoba-Labori Primary School in Serere, Uganda, books are opening doors for more than 1,100 learners eager to discover new worlds through reading.

Following a book delivery from Libraries For Kids International this year, teachers are already seeing encouraging results. Jacob Justine Alachu, representing the school, shared that the books have inspired learners and strengthened their reading abilities, particularly because of the engaging, colorful illustrations that help bring stories to life.

"The books have inspired and improved the reading ability of learners in this school because of the colored pictures which are related to the story," he reported.

For many children, access to books is transformational. A well-illustrated story not only captures a student's attention but also helps develop comprehension, vocabulary, confidence and a lifelong love of learning. At Otoba-Labori Primary School, the excitement surrounding the new books is evidence of the powerful impact that access to reading materials can have on young minds.

Yet, the school's enthusiasm also highlights an ongoing challenge, said Laura Winkel, CEO, Libraries For Kids International. With an enrollment of 1,122 learners, the demand for books far exceeds the number currently available. While our recent donation has made a meaningful difference, there are still not enough books to ensure that every student has the access they need to fully benefit from regular reading opportunities.

This is a reality seen in many schools served by Libraries For Kids International. Each shipment creates immediate educational impact, but as students eagerly embrace reading, the need for additional books becomes even more apparent. Teachers want to place more books into the hands of more children. Students want more stories to explore, more knowledge to discover, and more opportunities to practice the skills that will shape their futures, Winkel added.

At Otoba-Labori, the success of the program is measured not only by the books delivered but by the excitement they generate. The challenge now is meeting the growing demand created by that success. As Libraries For Kids International continues its mission to expand access to quality books around the world, schools like Otoba-Labori remind us that every book matters and that the need remains great.

Kenya Teacher: Libraries For Kids International's Books Improve Student Concentration, Vocabulary and English- Language Use

Pupils in white shirts sharing open books at a wooden desk in a classroom, with more pupils at desks behind them

"In Kenya, generally we have poor reading culture, however, with your book donation to our school, the poor culture is dying out. Particularly, our learners have started to visit our makeshift library frequently to interact with books. Class teachers have also reported reduction in cases of absenteeism as learners fear missing captivating stories. As a language teacher, I have noted improvement in concentration, vocabulary acquisition and general English-language use. We have also registered improvement in creativity, imagination, communication and critical- thinking skills among our learners. Teachers have also got some reference materials especially in science which is a big plus to whole school community. It is my honest opinion that the project continue and monitoring visits be done."

Nalwa T. Teacher, Rafiki Primary School Tana River County, Kenya

Libraries For Kids International is a Nonprofit Partner at Sept. 26 Burnt Church Distillery Charity Event

Flyer: Burnt Church Distillery Community Giveback Festival, supporting local non-profits. September 26th, 12 to 4 PM. Silent auction 12 to 2 PM. Live music by Tommy Sims 1 to 4 PM. Join us for an afternoon of community, music, and giving back. We are a participating non-profit: Libraries For Kids International. Good spirits. Stronger community. Thank you for supporting our community

Libraries For Kids International is honored to be selected as a nonprofit partner for Burnt Church Distillery’s Community Partner Give Back Event, Sept. 26 in Bluffton, South Carolina.

This community event brings together approximately 15 Lowcountry nonprofit organizations for a day of connection, awareness and support. Guests will have the opportunity to learn more about local nonprofits, meet volunteers and staff, and discover ways to help strengthen our community.

The event, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., will feature nonprofit tents with information and merchandise, a silent auction with items donated by participating organizations, and live music throughout the day. Libraries For Kids International will be on site sharing information about its mission to establish and improve children's libraries in underserved communities in rural Africa, said Laura Winkel, CEO, Libraries For Kids International.

All proceeds from winning bids on silent auction items donated by Libraries For Kids International will support the organization's mission and help provide books, resources and educational opportunities for children in need.

This event is also a volunteer opportunity and a chance to support multiple organizations making a difference across the Lowcountry. Whether you come to bid in the silent auction, enjoy the live music, learn about local causes, or simply show your support, your participation will have a lasting impact, Winkel added.

Libraries For Kids International encourages its supporters, volunteers, friends and community members to join us at Burnt Church Distillery Sept. 26. Please come out, support local nonprofits, and help fuel the mission of Libraries For Kids International.

Together, we can continue creating opportunities for children through literacy, education and access to books.

Volunteers Needed for 'Maritime AfterHours' Sept. 2, in Savannah

Libraries For Kids International is the charity of the month at the next meeting of "Maritime AfterHours," in Savannah, Wednesday, Sept. 2, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Libraries For Kids International's participation was moved to Sept. 2 from its originally scheduled date of Aug. 5.)

The monthly gathering is organized by the Savannah (Georgia) Maritime Association. Libraries For Kids International needs volunteers to help sell 50/50 raffle tickets and distribute brochures at the event, said Roy Austin, founder and board president. Please write to him at roy.austin@libraries4kids.org if you can volunteer.

In April of this year, attendees contributed $715 to Libraries For Kids International.

At each monthly meeting of Maritime AfterHours, a charitable organization is designated for donations from attendees. Libraries For Kids International is the organization's charity partner three times per year.

Attendees typically travel from throughout the United States and locally to attend, including some who regularly give to Libraries For Kids International. The event also provides an important opportunity for Libraries For Kids International supporters to share information about the organization's mission.

According to its website, the Savannah Maritime Association works for the common benefit of all participants in Georgia’s ports, plus federal, state, city, commercial and community organizations. The association identifies and achieves common goals and objectives for the maritime community.

Libraries For Kids International's Sept. 21 Author Event Features Millie West, 'Cat Island' and 'The Wind Chimes'

Libraries For Kids International's Sept. 21 Free Author Event features Millie West, left, who will discuss her new novella, Cat Island (previously a screenplay) and a new screenplay, The Wind Chimes.

Millie West, the author, smiling in a tweed jacket and white collar, in a portrait

Author events are held at The Roasting Room, 1297 May River Rd., Bluffton, South Carolina (2nd floor above Corner Perk), beginning at 10:30 a.m.

West is an author, aviatrix and adventurer. She is a licensed pilot, one of the first female pilots hired by UPS. Her love of adventure has taken her between the clouds and into the woods. She and her husband are avid hunters and hikers.

Libraries For Kids International sponsors these free talks, and there is a suggested donation of $5 to the sponsor. Books will be available for sale and signing.

Reservations are required because seating is limited. Call or text Tamela Maxim, Libraries For Kids International board member, at 843-683-4100 or email at tamela.maxim@libraries4kids.org to reserve a spot or ask questions. Next author event is Oct. 19, featuring Cele and Lyn Seldon.

Change a Life Today Through the Power of Books

Pupils in blue jumpers sitting on the floor of a classroom with their hands raised, a teacher standing at the back

The challenges facing rural schools in Africa are real -- but so is the difference you can make! Every book Libraries For Kids International delivers represents knowledge, hope and opportunity. Every donation helps students gain access to resources that can change the course of their lives. Together, we can help ensure that more children have the chance to learn, grow and succeed. Please make your donation today and help change a life through reading.

Your generosity will help empower students in Kenya and Uganda with the education and resources they need to build brighter futures. Thank you for believing in the potential of every child and for partnering with us to make a difference!

Discover the Heart of Our Organization!

Explore the incredible impact you’ve helped us achieve. Visit our website to learn more about these key areas by following the links below:

How Can You Help Move Our Mission Forward?

Many of you ask how to support our mission. Here are a just few ways you can truly create an impact with us:

Forward this newsletter to at least one person you know
Support our program directly
Volunteer your time to join us in our efforts
Share our story on social media and tell friends and family