Regional Libraries

Empowering Young Minds Through Education and Healing

At Action Child Cancer Africa (ACCA), we understand that childhood cancer affects more than just physical health—it disrupts education, emotional well-being, and the joy of childhood. To address these challenges, we launched our Regional Libraries Project, providing children undergoing treatment with access to educational resources, joyful escapism, and a safe space to learn and grow.

Our First Steps

In March 2023, with funds raised specifically for this initiative, we established our first library at the Children’s Oncology Unit of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KTH). This library serves as:

  • A sanctuary for learning and play.

  • A resource for mental well-being.

  • A source of hope during uncertain times.

Staffed by a dedicated librarian and a part-time teacher assigned by Korle Bu, the library ensures that every child has access to books and learning materials, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Expanding Our Vision

Our mission doesn’t stop at Korle Bu. We aim to establish similar libraries across Ghana and beyond, ensuring that no child undergoing treatment is left without the opportunity to learn and dream.

  • Completed Projects: In Tamale, our recently completed library is already making an impact.

  • Ongoing Projects: In Kumasi, we are building another library, which is set to open by December 2024.

  • Upcoming Projects: Plans are underway to establish libraries in Cape Coast, Takoradi, and Ho by next year, expanding our reach and deepening our impact.

The books for our libraries are provided through a meaningful partnership with Book Aid International UK, ensuring high-quality and diverse educational materials for the children we serve.

The Benefits of Our Libraries

  1. A Safe Haven for Learning
    Each library provides a welcoming and safe environment where children can explore, learn, and engage, despite their treatment challenges.

  2. Comfort, Joy, and Hope
    The libraries offer a healthy escape from the difficult treatments and interventions, creating moments of happiness and hope during trying times.

  3. Education Continuity
    For children who miss school due to their diagnosis, the libraries provide an opportunity to continue learning, ensuring they don’t fall behind academically.

  4. Emotional Bonding Through Books
    Our libraries encourage children and their parents to explore the joy of books together, fostering emotional connections and enriching family moments during treatment.

A Brighter Future for Every Child

Through the Regional Libraries Project, ACCA is committed to ensuring that children battling cancer have access to not just treatment but also opportunities to dream, learn, and grow.

We are grateful to Book Aid International for their ongoing support and partnership in bringing this initiative to life. We must also thank Ghana Library Services for training librarians. Our thanks also go to Ghana Library Services for their invaluable role in training librarians to support this project.