Tracey Cripps-Manda, teacher and mum of two kids from Manchester, has lived in Africa for more than 30 years, from Mozambique to Botswana
A multi-language library for adults and kids will open at the new Pavilion mall in Fumba Town: librarian-to-be Tracey Cripps-Manda explains plans.
Who will be your readers?
Everyone! We would like our library to be as inclusive as possible, reach out to people who do not have access to the latest publications and quality books. Will have a Kiswahili section of course, and many other languages reflecting the community, German, Italian and so on.
For adults and kids?
Yes, a vibrant children’s section is part of the plan as well as fiction and non-fiction for adults, VIP readings and other events. A love of reading starts early, so catch them while they’re young!
What brought yourself to Fumba?
The opportunity to invest in Fumba Town presented itself just when my husband and I were on the cusp of retirement – perfect timing you might say! I have spent my career as an educator. As a result, I appreciate the contribution books, magazines and newspapers can make to a learning process, at whatever age.
Then you packed your books?
Indeed, I brought 22 crates of books to Zanzibar, my collection has found a new home in the proposed library. But we’d need much more donations; a good library needs thousands of books.
Twitter, Insta & co, dwindling sales, has the internet killed books?
The short answer is no. Whether you use an E-reader or a printed book, books make you feel or understand something better than you did before.
How will you organise the Pavilion library?
Will have a soft opening over the next weeks and months, decide on fees, if any, and opening hours. The library will be analogue - switch-off-your-mobile-type - situated on the upper floor next to the rooftop function space at the Pavilion. Will certainly need volunteers; we have already started a library group, anyone interested is welcome to join. Donate your gently used books to us.
Contact:
+265 996 141 774 WhatsApp
