Plant A Library

Ethiopian children deserve safe, inviting spaces in which to read, study, think, learn and connect with books. Since opening Shola Children’s Library, the first free library for children in Ethiopia, Ethiopia Reads has planted libraries throughout the capital city of Addis Ababa.

Ethiopia Reads employs a high-standard of excellence in our libraries, so that they are not merely reading rooms but dynamic, interactive, well-organized environments with relevant, high-quality materials. We aim to create libraries that heighten and complement a child’s education and nurture a love of reading and books.

Each library is equipped with attractive, high-quality furniture, educational materials and hundreds of books in English as well as local Ethiopian languages. We also provide training and resources to librarians, aides and teachers who work within these libraries.

With the support of generous individuals across the world, Ethiopia Reads is moving towards its goal of planting dozens of libraries throughout Ethiopia. Planting a library through sponsorship makes a direct and powerful impact on the live of hundreds of children by providing a space in which hope can live. As many have discovered, a tax-deductible library sponsorship is a wonderful way to celebrate a new addition to a family, honor a loved one or unite a community group.

Ethiopia Reads plants libraries for children in partnership with government, public and private schools.

Due to the overwhelming support of donors across the world, we are currently on schedule to plant 10 libraries in 2008 and 15 in 2009. We are now accepting sponsorships for 2010 and beyond.

If you are interested in finding out how you, your family, school, community group, service club or place of worship can sponsor a library in 2010 – or be placed on a waiting list for 2009 -- please email info@ethiopiareads.org. In the meantime, please visit HOW YOU CAN HELP to learn how you can make a difference right now.

Ethiopia Reads is a registered non-profit, non-governmental, non-sectarian 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax-deductible. You will be sent a receipt with the relevant tax ID number for your records.