A library changing lives, one reader at a time
Our Head of Communications Chitsimikiso Kalanje writes:
“Can I please talk to you?” These simple words startled a library user who was deeply focused on his books. He looked so frightened, as if he was not supposed to be in the library. Later, it became a laughing matter when he discovered why he had been called. The student was Boniface Bamusi, a first year university student who only started using the library a few months ago after learning about it from a friend who is a regular user.
As a university student living off campus, Boniface found it difficult to study at home due to noise from fellow students and the surrounding neighborhood. Finding a quiet place to concentrate was becoming a challenge. Since he started coming to the library, however, studying has become much easier. “The library is quiet, and I am able to focus on my studies,” he explained.
Although Boniface now visits the library regularly, he was not aware that users are allowed to borrow books. Since the library currently has limited resources specifically for university students, he was excited to learn that he could borrow materials, including dictionaries and other reference books. When he was called for an interview, he became nervous because he was still a new user and thought university students might not be allowed to use the library. Once he understood the reason, everyone shared a laugh.
This interaction highlighted how much work still needs to be done to ensure that the Mbedza Library is visible and accessible to everyone in the Songani area. The library offers free access to books and learning resources, but many people in the community are still unaware of the services available. Without proper awareness, the library risks serving only a small number of regular users. However, users themselves can play an important role in making the library more accessible by encouraging friends and classmates to visit. This is exactly how another user, Jason Wasie, discovered the library.
Jason was introduced to the library by a classmate who was already a regular visitor. At the time, the invitation came when he needed it most. His academic performance was declining, and he was becoming increasingly worried about his future. As a Form Three student, Jason reflected on the reasons behind his falling grades. He realized that he was not studying enough, was not paying enough attention in class, and spent too much time playing. When his friend invited him to the library, he registered immediately and has been using it ever since. Today, Jason is preparing to sit for his Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations, which begin on June 29.
Looking back, he is grateful that he was able to get back on track. Jason dreams of becoming a nurse one day. Biology is his favorite subject, but despite his passion for it, he was not performing well in examinations. “There was a time when I thought my dream of becoming a nurse was over because my grades were not improving,” he said. Since joining the library, however, his performance has steadily improved. One of the things Jason appreciates most is the variety of learning materials available. Unlike at school, where there may only be one textbook per subject, the library provides access to multiple resources and different editions, including Excel, Arise, Achievers, and others. Without a smartphone, Jason depends entirely on books for information. Among the available resources, Excel is his favorite edition.
As the MSCE examinations approach, the library is experiencing an increase in the number of users. While this is encouraging, it has also created challenges. Jason explained that there have been several occasions when he visited the library specifically to use an Excel textbook, only to find that all copies were already in use. He wishes there were enough books to meet the growing demand from students. Despite these challenges, Jason believes the library continues to play a vital role in helping learners access information they might not otherwise find at school. Beyond books, the library has also helped him find a study circle. After the library closes, students gather together to discuss difficult subjects and help one another understand challenging topics. These study circles have become an important part of their learning journey.
The impact of the library extends beyond secondary school learners. Children regularly visit the library and are often excited by colorful storybooks and cartoons. For many of them, reading is becoming both educational and enjoyable. As Junior School Certificate Examinations (JSCE) continue, the library is welcoming more learners than ever before. This is exactly what the library hopes to see students taking advantage of free educational resources to improve their academic performance and achieve their goals. Stories like those of Boniface and Jason remind us why the library matters.
Although resources are sometimes stretched and books cannot always accommodate every user, the library continues to serve its purpose by providing access to knowledge, creating opportunities for learning, and supporting students in their educational journeys. These learners are the future leaders of our communities and our nation. By equipping them with knowledge today, we are helping them become informed citizens, responsible leaders, and individuals capable of making positive decisions for themselves and their communities tomorrow. At Mbedza Library, every book borrowed, every page turned, and every hour spent studying is helping to shape a brighter future.