Lubuto Libraries
Sure, I go to the library for books, but also sometimes I just go to exist in a space that’s welcoming, organized, comfortable, judgement-free, and run by knowledgeable, helpful, passionate people, because that energy is straight up medicinal.” Jonathan Edward Durham
There are currently five Lubuto libraries serving children and youth across Zambia. We work through a flagship Model Library in Lusaka and a Model Rural Library in Southern Province to train librarians, teachers and community members, building a network of Lubuto libraries that are owned and sustained by local organizations.
Lubuto’s libraries are public libraries that are free and open to all. They are distinguished from “community libraries” that are sustained from community funding and taxes. Lubuto’s first, proof-of-concept library opened in 2007 at the Fountain of Hope Drop-in Centre, and was sustained through outside support for 10 years. Lubuto’s approach to sustainability is based on local ownership. We provide the buildings, technology, collections and training staff, but “host organizations” support their libraries’ operations, including staff and facilities upkeep.
The three current hosts for Lubuto libraries are: the Mthunzi Centre, the BICC Choma Children Development Project and the St. Daniel Comboni Development Centre. Where we can, we try to help these owners get support for their libraries.
“Welcome to Lubuto Libraries”