School Libraries in a trunk
The quality books Biblionef donates require quality storage space. That is why schools will prefer to use a separate classroom as a library. But since most schools don’t have any space or room left, Biblionef uses Containers for Libraries and Steel Trunks for so-called Classroom Libraries and for providing books in spread out Rural Communities. A steel trunk is a perfect solution to a small but safe and clean library-in-a-box. Depending on the amount of library facilities available in a certain area Biblionef can also decide to establish a Community Library in a container.

 

Community Library
The Community Container Library is a solution using converted, second hand sea containers. These 12 metre containers, in good condition, are fitted with windows and doors, are clad with a wood grain finished material, have carpets as well as security bars on windows and doors. They are also converted for electricity. The interior is fitted with shelving, storage cupboards and has other library furniture and equipment.

 

Farm libraries
The Community Container Library works quite well in a centred community although it remains quite difficult to find enough volunteers to run the library effectively. In the more spread out rural areas, especially for people living and working on farms we install Farm Libraries. For these libraries we prefer to use Steel Trunks. In the Rooiberg area near Robertson, Western Cape we started by dividing one collection in four: each trunk carrying a quarter of the total collection. After a certain period the trunks will be exchanged so people do have access to a broader collection than just one trunk.

 

Safe & Clean
The same trunks have also turned out to be very useful within schools that overwhelmingly indicate the lack of facilities to keep the books. Donating storybooks to schools is Biblionef’s core business. For a project funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund this year ten schools in each province have been supplied with such a lockable, Biblionef- blue, Steel Trunk. Teachers and learners report positively as the trunks keep the books clean, safe and dry. Bringing the books literally into the classroom or on the farm has the highest impact. We have calculated that the group of children directly influenced by the National Lottery project is 44,800 and indirectly 112,050. All schools have to report to Biblionef on the impact the books made in able to receive more books.