A NUMBER of libraries have benefited from a huge consignment of books that were donated by a Scottish organisation, Action for South Africa.

Over 500 000 books were donated by the group. At the handover ceremony at the East London City Hall on Wednesday, 25 August, councillor Patricia Narwele said the organisation had seen the need to give some Eastern Cape schools the load of books.

The project began in 1995 as part of a twinning link established between Scotland and Eastern Cape. "Books have been received since 1997 and recipients have included a number of Eastern Cape libraries, Buffalo City and Amathole District schools and libraries."

The need for books was noted after it was observed that most children could not afford their own books and that regular reading for pleasure was crucial to acquiring the fluency in English reading which was essential for children.

In all, 17 schools will benefit from the donation, together with the University of Fort Hare and Mdantsane Child Care Centre.

Speaking at the handover, Executive Mayor Zukisa Faku said: "This day belongs to the learners in our respective communities and all those people who appreciate the value of education and enlightenment."

Highlighting the challenges faced by learners and educators, she spoke about the hostile environment they found themselves in. "The decisions that they have to take in pursuance of their respective careers are influenced more by outside forces then by their desire for success."

Some learners passed their exams but remained semi-literate for the rest of their lives because of the lack of exposure to the broader enlightening power of books and experiments.

Faku said the principal objective of the book drive was to help the schools develop libraries as resources for extracurricular literature and as repositories of additional knowledge. "The success of this programme will, however, depend on the will of the respective schools to make profitable use of these books. We are aware that the books may not necessarily meet or satisfy your immediate requirements."

Action for South Africa was founded in 1995 in conjunction with Material Aid Scotland.