Expanded access to books dramatically improves a child’s ability to learn, succeed in school, and ultimately earn higher wages.

Buildings & Books works to expand access to books by establishing children’s community libraries in sub-Saharan Africa. We've completed our first library in Lwandeti, Kenya and are actively working toward the establishment of our second library in the western Kenyan community of Dendyo.

Decisions about the location, construction and operation of a library are best made by those who will be using it. We therefore work closely with local educators, government leaders and other stakeholders to ensure that our libraries best serve the needs of the community.

While specific details vary based on a community’s particular needs, our libraries share many common features. Generally, Buildings & Books libraries are:

• Durable brick structures, roughly 30 by 50 feet in size, with a poured concrete foundation and galvanized metal roof
• Constructed by local masons using locally produced building materials
• Reinforced with concrete and steel columns for added strength and stability
• Furnished with locally built tables, chairs, desks and bookcases
• Stocked with locally published books
• Open to all members of the community, who enjoy free book borrowing privileges

To promote sustainability, Buildings & Books also provides a modest annual stipend to help support the cost of operating each of the libraries we establish.