Dear Friends,
Since my return a week ago, Ghanaians have elected a change of government with the hopeful anticipation of an improved economy, the country’s most pressing concern. Despite the challenges, our libraries continue to thrive and expand their horizons. In addition to sharing the joy of reading, OCLF’s goal, our libraries act as community hubs and offer a range of exciting programs and varied activities.
Korle Gonno Library (2014) celebrated its 10th anniversary with three events. The first was a parade through the community with music provided by their very own energetic brass band. Days later, the library hosted a student-led panel discussion with the topic: The Rights and Responsibilities of a Child according to Ghana’s Constitution. The final event – almost four hours long – included multiple dance performances and a play.
Nungua Community Library (2003) hosted its first table tennis (ping pong) tournament. Matches took place over the course of a week, and I was fortunate to witness the final few games. Constance, a participant and library user, wrote, “A girl doing sports is not easy but I tried hard so that one day I can be a famous table tennis player. It is great and joyful to be a sport girl like me.” Librarians from other libraries are now pleading for our mason to make tables for their libraries, too.
Nima Centre (2006) held a spelling quiz for its three literacy classes. Surprisingly, learners from the beginners’ class won after their dedicated facilitator spent hours going over the words as selected from a Grade 7 spelling bee list. The Centre has hosted evening literacy classes since its inception, catering to learners from both Ghana and beyond. Sikira, a regular attendee of the beginner’s class, wrote, “Because I can read and write my friends respect me now.”
Accra College of Education Community Library aka Madina (2011) now extends its outreach to a nearby government school. Twice each week, a librarian visits three classrooms to read aloud, using both English and Twi. We are hoping that by reading exciting, meaningful stories that reflect the children’s own experience and told in their mother tongue, they will view books in a more positive light and become stronger readers. Sadly, many children in Ghana associate books solely with exams.
Each November, we host a workshop for all workers. It provides an opportunity for everyone to learn from each other, for workers to gain insight from the guest speaker’s keynote address, and for attendees to socialize throughout the day. In the afternoon, I read Bird is Dead by Dutch writer Tiny Fisscher. Afterwards, the librarians created their own birds using a collage method in the style of the book’s illustrator Herma Staffeveld. Learning new art ideas, especially those inspired by books, encourages librarians when they return to their own libraries.
Three libraries have formed French clubs. In just a few weeks, volunteer teachers have taught the children a repertoire of songs, and one club is putting on a nativity pageant using their newly-acquired skills. The idea for these clubs was spearheaded by a woman from Côte d’Ivoire, who on two occasions has brought students from there to visit our libraries in Accra and to experience Ghanaian culture.
Our annual Sports Festival is great fun with children playing according to their appointed team colour. The hula hoop contest was deemed a tie when the last two competitors looked as though they could hula hoop all day!
During these times, when one reads about a steady stream of world conflicts, I am pleased to report that our libraries are making a peaceful, positive difference one user at a time. Thank you for your help to make this happen.
Warmest wishes,
Kathy Knowles