Biblionef

Biblionef is a non-profit organization dedicated to donating new, culturally relevant children’s books in local languages to schools, libraries, and other organizations that work with children and young people in under-resourced communities. Its primary goal is to improve literacy and foster a love of reading amongst children, particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.

Biblionef operates by collecting donations of money and books, purchasing new books that are specifically chosen to meet the needs and interests of the target communities, and then distributing those books through a network of partner organizations. A key aspect of Biblionef's work is its focus on providing books in the languages spoken by the children themselves, ensuring that they can engage with the stories and develop their literacy skills effectively. The organization often works with local authors and publishers to create and source books that reflect the cultures and experiences of the communities it serves.

Biblionef was founded in 1998 in South Africa. Due to its initial success, Biblionef expanded to other countries to address global literacy challenges. Its name, Biblionef, is derived from the Greek words "biblio" (book) and "nef" (ship), signifying a ship transporting books to those in need. The organization aims to provide access to books, which are seen as a crucial tool for education, personal development, and empowerment.