Lubuto Library Partners

In 2006 U.S. Amb. Carmen Martinez made these remarks at a premiere of Lubuto film "Kids Just Like You" at American Centre, Lusaka:

Referring to the “urgent need for this project,” Amb. Martinez noted that “The concept of Lubuto Libraries includes the same standards of library services for children in the U.S., and reflects the American tradition of free access to information and learning.” She stated, “professional library communities in the U.S. and Zambia, along with top international children’s books and literacy organizations and leaders, have joined in this groundbreaking effort with great enthusiasm.” Convinced that Lubuto libraries will be a model for other countries in the region, the Ambassador said they were looking for ways the U.S. Mission can offer their facilities for future training and other support:https://jane-meyers-rfcv.squarespace.com/s/remarkskidsjustlikeyou.pdf

Suomen suurlähetystö Lusaka - Embassy of Finland Lusaka U.S. Embassy Zambia

Astrid Lindgren, the great Swedish children’s author—creator of Pippi Longstocking—and crusader for children’s rights, said, “Everything big that occurred in the world occurred in someone’s imagination.” Lubuto started out in an imagination—an idea that grew from a clear understanding of the profound impact collections of great stories in welcoming and nurturing spaces has on children of all ages.

April 14 is not only the date for the Lubuto Library Partners– Suomen suurlähetystö Lusaka - Embassy of Finland Lusaka roundtable discussion on public library spaces and services where anyone can access the great books they want and deserve; it is also when the winner of the 2026 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, known as the "Nobel Prize for Children's Literature," will be announced. We are so honored to have been nominated for the 17th time for the ALMA as a reading promoter!

"Today is my first time visiting the library. I was introduced to the LubutoLiteracy lessons in the morning and they are so exciting. I had to go home and grab my cousin so she can also come and learn how to read.”