The Ghana Library Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to knowledge and digital literacy following the commissioning of a refurbished community library at Okaikoi in Accra.
The facility, located in Okaikoi South district, was officially handed over by the Rotary Club of Accra Legon East marking a significant milestone in efforts to promote literacy and community development.
Speaking at the event, Executive Director of the Ghana Library Authority, Mr Alhassan Betintiche Ziblim, said the Authority remains committed to ensuring equitable access to library services across the country.
He noted that although Ghana’s national library network has expanded to about 140 branches, many communities still lack access to such facilities, underscoring the need for collective action to bridge the gap.
“We must work together to establish more libraries to store knowledge for future generations,” he said, stressing that proper maintenance of facilities is key to attracting further investment from partners and philanthropists.
Mr. Ziblim outlined key priorities for the newly refurbished library, including the implementation of a strong maintenance plan, stocking of relevant educational materials, and the development of an ICT centre in a second phase to enhance digital literacy among young people.
He also expressed appreciation to partners and donors, particularly the Rotary Club and individual contributors, for their role in delivering the project.
President of the Rotary Club, Mr Emmanuel Sessou, officially handed over the facility, describing it as a public resource aimed at serving people of all ages within the community.
He disclosed that the project, valued at approximately GH¢200,000, was funded through Rotary’s internal resources, donations, and support from partners including Settech Engineering MBH of Austria and individual contributors.
According to him, the library is already witnessing growing patronage, with over 600 visits recorded in 2025, and is projected to reach about 8,000 visits by the end of the year with sustained engagement.
The facility is expected to serve several nearby schools, including St. Joseph, Issah Basic School, St. Nicholas Preparatory School, Peter Memorial, and Graceland School, providing access to a curated collection of African literature and academic materials in subjects such as science, English, and mathematics.
Mr. Sessou emphasised the importance of community involvement in sustaining the project, calling on teachers, parents, and local leaders to promote reading culture and support library programmes through active participation and volunteerism.
He further highlighted that Rotary’s contributions are largely driven by member fundraising and support from the Rofi Foundation, as well as voluntary professional expertise from members in fields such as engineering, education, and healthcare.
The commissioning of the facility coincided with International Children’s Book Day, reinforcing the importance of nurturing a reading culture among children.
Some reading books were donated to the newly opened library.
Both the Ghana Library Authority and Rotary officials called for continued collaboration among government, civil society, and private sector partners to expand access to libraries and improve literacy outcomes across the country.
The refurbished Okaikoi Community Library is expected to serve as a hub for education, reading, and digital learning, while also setting a model for sustainable community-based library development in Ghana.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
