Building a Community Library in Ghana

Greetings! My name is Leslie Allen and I am raising funds to help build a Community Library in a village close to Cape Coast, Ghana.

When I visited the community in September 2023, I was told that an official from the library in the city of Cape Coast brings photocopies of books to the community on the weekend and reads to them. The children do not have the opportunity to read the actual books on their own.

Some time ago I watched a video of a village school that did not have a library. Coming from a country where access to a library is commonplace, it has become my passion to build libraries in these rural communities.

I know I can't reach every village but I can start with one.

Without access to books, it is difficult for these children to broaden their horizons and see past their village limits. We tell our children that "the sky is the limit". I want some of these children to imagine something different for their lives so that they can bring back what they have learned to their villages.

I have learned how blissfully ignorant our society is to the struggle of people in other countries. These are human beings that have dreams and desires for their futures just as we do. The difference is that they are willing to work hard for them. However they need a little help.

I chose the AFODAT (African Foundation Dance Theatre) community because of the vision, determination and heart of Mr. Samuel Akpalu.

He was raised in the streets and through his God given talent of dance, he has created a community for children who are experiencing the same thing.

He works tirelessly with these children and is presently helping over 70 children. He raises money through dance performances and the generous gifts from people like you and me.

When I mentioned my dream of building a community library to Mr. Samuel Akpalu I could see the hope shine through his eyes. He told me "I am serious with this library. It was my prayer topic for years".

I asked how much it would cost to build a two room library and within one day he sent me a breakdown of the costs involved.

The funds would be used for materials such as cement, cement blocks, nails, roofing sheets, facial boards, paint, wood for roofing, windows, doors, tables and shelves for books, fans, electric wiring, switches and sockets.

Any remaining funds would be used for books, furnishings, accessories, and hopefully a computer or two(or three).

Please consider donating to this worthwhile endeavor. The gratitude for even the smallest things is genuine.

I have sent $1000 to Sam this week. He has already purchased materials to build the foundation.

Could you please help Sam and his children complete this needed project.

Thank you.