Where It All Began – New Upgrades at Chipulukusu Container Library

The Chipulukusu Container Library got some important new upgrades, with a new boundary wall and fence constructed and an awning added.

It is particularly special to see these improvements taking place at Chipulukusu because this is where the Sr Grace Public Library story began. The container that became the Chipulukusu Community Library was the very first container we delivered to Zambia, arriving in July 2017 – nine years ago this month.

At the time, it was the beginning of something new. A single container filled with books and educational materials, sent from Ireland with the hope that it could make a positive difference in the community. Nine years later, it is remarkable to look back at that first container and see how far we have come.

What started with one container has grown into a much wider effort to create libraries, improve access to books and educational resources, and support communities across Ndola, Zambia

The latest upgrades at the Container Library in Chipulukusu are also a reminder that our work does not end when a container arrives. The libraries we help establish continue to grow and develop alongside the communities that use them.

The new wall and fence will help define and protect the library grounds, while the awning will provide additional covered space for library users and activities and some respite against the radiant Zambian sun.

For us, Chipulukusu will always be a very special place. It was our first container. And the beginning of a journey that continues today.

Nine years, three container libraries and our flagship Sr Grace Public Library in Chibolele later, we are proud to continue investing in the place where it all began.