Model: Jifundishe Free Library
- In 2009, the 2,500 sq ft Jifundishe Free Library opened.
- Large indoor seating space, multi-purpose community room, 600 sq ft onsite staff house, solar power.
- Over 5,000 books for children, students, adults and teachers.
- Computer lab
the success
- Tanzanian Board of Directors comprised of local leaders and volunteers resulting in ownership and investment in the success of the Library.
- Board responds to community needs.
- Functions as a community center for social and health issues.
- Serves as a base for the initiation of income-producing projects.
the outcomes
- An Independent Study Program prepares students to take and pass the national exam making them eligible for university.
- In 2010, 40 students in the IS Program (aged 15-55), took the exam with a100% pass rate compared to a 50% pass rate in government schools.
- Adult literacy classes.
- Three successful Women’s Cooperatives
- Local teachers attribute their school’s increases in test scores to the Library providing access to textbooks and tutors for their students.
