What we do/Mandela Container Libraries Project

 

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” … Nelson Mandela

Why?

• Our children’s poor level of literacy is harming their future
• More than 16 000 public schools in South Africa do not have libraries
• Container libraries are an innovative, inexpensive way to address this need
• The Mandela Day Library Project provides container libraries to deserving primary schools
• This year we are hoping to place at least 20 new libraries
  
• We need your support
  
  

 

How does the project work?

• The project is part of Mandela Day celebrations nationwide
• The Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory heads the project
• Breadline Africa oversees the work of converting the containers
• Soul Buddyz identifies the  schools with active Soul Buddyz Clubs
• Corporates provide financial support, sponsorship of books and employee volunteers 
• Literacy organisations, book donation agencies and publishers provide books, educational equipment and materials
  
  

 

Who does the project benefit?

• Container libraries are installed at deserving primary schools throughout South Africa
• Between 800-1000 learners will benefit from the new library in each school
• Soul Buddyz Club members at the schools assist with the maintenance and use of the container library
• Literacy NGOs and other organisations help instill a culture of reading amongst children
  
  

How can you help?

• Pledge your support for the Mandela Day Library Project
• Sponsor a library branded with your own company logo
• A 12-metre container library costs between R120 000 to R160 000 to install; other larger options are available. Please click here to view the Container Library plan.
  
• Offer equipment, books or other educational materials
• ‘Adopt’ a school and raise funds among staff
• Ask your staff to participate in painting and furnishing the library
• All supporters receive a Section 18a tax exemption certificate
  
  

To find out more and get involved, please contact Tim Smith, Director of Breadline Africa (director@breadlineafrica.org.za; 021-4180322) 

Or Frank Meintjies, Mandela Day Coordinator, Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory
(FrankM@nelsonmandela.org; 011-547 5600)