THE FRIENDSHIP LIBRARY
A library for the village of Nkyenenkyene, Ghana funded by Joy Borra and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta, GA, USA
The library to which so many UUCA members contributed was dedicated August 16, 2006 with much, much fanfare. That was just six months after the first foundation blocks were laid, and less than one year from the first concept of creating a people-to-people project in Africa.
The opening of the Friendship Library was festive, with a ribbon cutting, feasting, and entertainment. Of course there was also much trying out of the seats at the reading tables and much reading of books. The two Ghanans who helped us, Dr. George Ayittey and Mr. Gilbert Owusu, represented UUCA at the ceremony.
From last Christmas through May 2006, UUCA members and friends contributed money, books, and organizing time to raise $17,000 to build a library for the village and school at Nkyenenkyene, Ghana. The residents wanted this library badly, and once the simple 20' x 40' building was designed and building materials procured, they worked quickly to lay the blocks, put on the roof, and build all the furniture. Today the library shelves overflow with books; a paid librarian makes sure they are cared for. The elementary school principal is committed to having the students use the library as a classroom resource.
We could work further with this village, helping to construct two additional school classrooms (We provided timely roof repairs to two makeshift outdoor classrooms as the rainy season started) and helping Malaria Foundation International develop a really effective malaria eradication project. If you have an interest in such projects, contact Joy Borra (jborra@uuca.org, 678-522-8156).
 The boys of Nkyenenkyene Primary School |  The village begins the library using materials we purchased. |
 Here is what our gifts made possible. |  "Teacher Pauline," the principal; The Chief Elder; Dr. George Ayittey. |
The village elders and residents sent UUCA an inscribed banner thanking all of us. Here is what it says,
“We the entire citizens of Nkyenenkyene, acknowledge with profound gratitude the Friendship Library built for us by the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta, USA. We thank Joy Borra and all those who funded the construction of the Library. God richly bless you all.
– By Nkyenenkyene Village Committee, August 16, 2006.
 Dr. Ayittey cuts the ribbon to open the Library. |  Dedication Ceremony. The 25 ' x 40 ' Library was PACKED! |
 Songs by the smallest children. |  Students have 75 feet of overflowing library shelves. |
 Each child received one mosquito net at the Dedication. |  End of our party...Our friends in Nkyenenkyene village. |
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Click here to view a .pdf photo album of this Friendship Library project.