About Books For Africa
Books For Africa was founded upon a singular mission: to end the book famine in Africa. BFA collects, sorts, and ships books, computers, tablets, and library enhancement materials to every country in Africa. In collaboration with worldwide donors, publishers, and African partners, we provide the tools of empowerment to children and students across Africa. Our vision is an Africa rich in readers- in classrooms, during leisure time in libraries, and throughout university and prosperous careers. We supply varied, relevant books in English, French, and national languages, computers and tablets with digital content, specialty post-secondary materials, and supplies to create vibrant learning spaces.
Books For Africa remains the largest shipper of donated text and library books to the African continent, shipping over 60 million books to all 55 countries on the African continent since 1988. In fiscal year 2023 alone, Books For Africa shipped approximately 4,029,000 books, valued at over $32.6 million, to 32 African countries, the most books ever shipped by Books For Africa in a single year. Approximately 800,000 digital books were also shipped on 116 computers and 150 tablets. Over $2.6 million was raised to ship these books to partners across Africa.
Books For Africa Board & Staff
Books For Africa’s leadership and board provide energy and passion for our mission, with an emphasis on organizational commitment to accountability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. Coming from a wide variety of professional and cultural backgrounds, these individuals are integral to BFA’s ongoing development and growth.
Why Books?
At Books For Africa, we believe that education is the great equalizer in the world, and books are at the foundation of a strong educational system. Access to an education is one of the only opportunities young people have to end the cycle of poverty and attain a better quality of life than previous generations.
How We Know It Works
A recent World Bank report (May 2015) emphasizes the urgent need to get textbooks into the hands of every student in sub-Saharan Africa. This report is part of a growing body of evidence reinforcing the efficiency and efficacy of putting the right books in the hands of African learners. The report states that "No other input is likely to be more cost effective than making high-quality learning materials available to all students…"
Special Initiatives
In addition to standard book order categories, Books For Africa has special initiatives that target specific needs of recipients: The Jack Mason Law and Democracy Initiative supports the rule of law and promotes human rights, Agricultural Libraries provide a comprehensive toolset for farmers and students, and our French Books Program provides appropriate materials for those in Francophone countries.
Financials & Annual Reports
Books For Africa is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving as the largest shipper of donated text and library books to the African continent. Books For Africa has received the highest rating from Charity Navigator.
