Help us build a library for children in Cameroon
Our library project
Why a library?
In the Northern Regions of Cameroon, access to books and safe learning spaces is limited. Many children cannot afford textbooks, and schools often lack well-equipped libraries. At Garizim Foundation, we believe every child deserves the chance to read, explore, and imagine a brighter future. Our library project will provide:
✔ Access to books and learning materials
✔ Digital learning resources
✔ Tutoring and mentorship in a safe space
✔ Community programs for literacy and skills development
✨ A Nehemiah Calling
A few months ago, I spoke with a fellow Sunday school teacher from our local church in Bini-Dang, Ngaoundéré—a small village that houses the University of Ngaoundéré. While the university brings students and staff into the village, most of the permanent inhabitants are indigenous families living with very limited resources. Many of the children we taught in Sunday school came from these families.
As we reflected on the lives of some of the children we once served, I was heartbroken to hear that several had taken paths that do not seem beneficial for their future. We asked ourselves: why is this happening? The answer was painfully clear. While the university provides resources for its students, there are almost no learning opportunities or infrastructures designed to support the younger children of the village.
This realization reignited a vision that has been on our hearts for years—the need to create a center of learning for these children. We are beginning with a library, a safe space where kids can read, learn, and be empowered to pursue brighter futures.
Like Nehemiah, though we are away, we cannot ignore the struggles of the children in the place we once called home. With God’s help, we are stepping forward to do what we can—to restore hope, and to give these little ones the chance to dream again. We are trusting the Lord to direct us to the people and resources needed to make this vision a reality.
Elvire Kagning, founder
The difference your gift makes
With your support, we can host up to 30 children at a time, provide shelves full of books, and run reading programs. This library will not only serve children but also empower families and uplift the community.
EXPECTED IMPACT
30
READERS
Every week
104
OPEN DAYS
A year
10
VOLUNTEERS
Rotating
What we've done so far
Space
We’ve secured a spacious, airy spot for our library that is both safe and easily accessible. The location is well-situated — far enough from the road for safety, yet close enough for the community to reach easily. While the space has great potential, it still needs some rehabilitation to become a fully functional and welcoming library.
Books
We have gathered a growing collection of books thanks to generous donations from a variety of sources, including The Alliance Française du Cameroun, Ngaoundéré branch, L’Association de l’Encre des Mums, as well as individual writers and community members. We warmly welcome additional book donations to help expand our library and provide even more learning opportunities for the children.
Community support
We have actively sought the support and buy-in of key local stakeholders through conversations with authorities, including the Mayor, the Sub-Divisional Office for Education (SDO), the CMPJ, and other community leaders. Their guidance and support are crucial for the successful establishment and sustainability of our library project.
What we need
To bring our community library to life, we need support in these key areas:
Library Space rent and renovation – 300,000 FCFA ($540) : Minor repairs, painting, lighting, flooring, ventilation.
Furniture & Shelving – 75,000 FCFA ($125): Tables, chairs, benches, and book shelves.
Books & Educational Materials – 75,000 FCFA ($125) : Local textbooks, storybooks, exercise books, and stationery to complete what we already have.
Computers & Digital Resources – 120,000 FCFA ($215) : One or two refurbished laptops/desktops + basic digital learning tools.
Internet & Connectivity – 75,000 FCFA ($125): Modem, router, and initial subscription.
Children’s Programs & Activities – 75,000 FCFA ($125) : Reading clubs, after-school programs, educational games.
Operational Support (logistics, volunteer transport, admin) – 125,000 FCFA ($225)
Total Goal: $1,500 (837,200 FCFA)
How You Can Help
Make a donation
Support the library with a one-time donation: every contribution helps keep its activities running smoothly.
Volunteer Your Skills
Volunteers dedicate their time, energy, and skills to supporting one or more aspects of the library’s activities.
Become a partner
Our partners commit to contributing a set amount on a recurring basis to help cover the library’s monthly operating costs.
What the community is saying...
– Mariam, Local child
– Mme Nya sidonie, CMPJ Coordinator
Let's build this library together!
Every page a child turns is a step toward a brighter future. Your contribution, no matter the size, makes this possible.