Libraries and Computer Labs

The provision of books and learning materials is integral to our mission of educating rural, under-served children. They provide the basis for knowledge acquisition and transfer, furthering the sustainability of our programs.

Through each KnowledgeCenter, we establish libraries and, where feasible, computer labs. The spaces which these resources occupy serve as learning hubs where children, teachers and community members read, write, draw, study, create, acquire typing skills, practice computer programs, access the internet and more. KnowledgeBeat team members select and train community members to be KnowledgeCenter staff who are responsible for overseeing the libraries and computer labs on a daily basis. 

Library and Computer Lab Objectives:

• Equip schools with necessary educational materials (reading material, computer, printer, visual aids, etc.) so that schools can adequately instruct pupils, distribute and record tests, manage administrative needs, etc.
• Strengthen teaching skills by providing necessary teaching materials.
• Enable schools to integrate KnowledgeCenter resources into pupils learning environment.
• Develop capacity of school administrators, librarians and teachers to manage and sustain KnowledgeCenters.
• Motivate teachers and community members through provision of small grants, computer training, letters of recommendation and entrepreneurship training.

KnowledgeBeat works with the Ministry of Education to ensure that all of the resources provided meet the needs of Zambian children. When possible, we purchase books and other resources from Zambian suppliers as a means of supporting the local economy. We also purchase from and partner with international organizations to bring resources not available within Zambia to our sites.

KnowledgeBeat initially establishes each library and computer lab with a core set of materials. Each year KnowledgeBeat supplements and updates the materials as long as the communities are meeting KnowledgeBeat standards of care and success. These standards are outlined in a memorandum of understanding with each community.  

Our flagship KnowledgeCenter in Ngoma launched in 2009 with a library and computer lab. Through this Center and the Ngoma community we are continuously evaluating and developing best practices for the creation of future libraries and computer labs.