Notes from the Field: School Library Dedication with UN Secretary-General

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – January 31, 2012: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon opened a library at Keykokeb primary school, which was established under an innovative United Nations scheme. His presence highlighted the importance of books for young people. The ceremony commemorated the hand over of a “Thank You Small Library (TYSL),” now available to the approximately 1,200 pupils there.

The TYSL initiative began in 2007, and between then and 2012, at least 110 separate libraries were created in 15 countries – mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative was designed and implemented by the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) ST-EP Foundation in support of the Millennium Development Goals. Its focus is on setting up small libraries in areas where children have limited access to reading and studying facilities. The libraries are established on existing premises, eliminating the need for new buildings, and the foundation supplies thousands of books to each. They also provide bookshelves, tables, desks and chairs, striving to source locally made and eco-friendly furniture.

During the ceremony, the Secretary-General said: “A library is not just a building full of books. It is a garden to cultivate individuals. A book is not just a collection of papers. A book is nourishment for your mind. With a book, you can travel, learn and grow.”

The library was funded by donations from the Republic of Korea, whose ambassador to the UN was also present.

Blue Chip Foundation founder Jennifer Gross was also a special guest at the ceremony along with Sonia Sachs, Jacqueline Corbelli and Joanna Rubinstein. In addition to hearing the Secretary-General speak, Jennifer and her companions read books to children with he and his wife.

“Attending the ceremony with Ban Ki Moon and reading books with he and the children was the highlight of my time in Addis Ababa,” said Gross. “There is so much growth and opportunity in Addis Ababa. You can see the area developing at an exponential rate, so continued focus on education is imperative for successful development. Nothing exercises the imagination more than reading. I’m hopeful that these children will be the next dreamers and builders of Ethiopia.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1_cOhLp4xA&list=PLkph-eoGAJ_5QRd-gBPyh8x9AoxSsH2hx