Ghana Book Trust (GBT)

GBT provides books in English and the local language to primary schools in the selected districts to allow them to establish school libraries. GBT selects books from an annotated list of titles supplied by donors (North American book publishers). The organisation says this system ensures that only appropriate and good-quality books are supplied; furthermore, subject areas may also be suggested. These books arrive in Ghana by ship. The GBT takes responsibility for the clearance of containers once they arrive and stores and displays the books and materials at its warehouses. Members are invited to the Trust's warehouses in Accra and Kumasi to select appropriate titles in consultation with GBT staff. GBT also purchases and distributes locally published books.

In arranging the distribution of the books, the GBT gives special attention to the most needy institutions in Ghana. Rural areas are considered a priority. Children remain the focus of the GBT, and receive more than 60% of all books distributed. Ghanaian and imported books are also donated to primary schools, junior secondary schools and rural community libraries. In 2001, GBT established a children's library on its premises, including an electronic component.

In addition to books, GBT provides teachers with the required skills to teach reading in English and also builds their capacity to set up and maintain a library. It does so by:

• conducting teacher training workshops in the teaching of reading
• conducting training workshops for librarians
• strengthening networks and capacity building.

Children, Education.

GBT's objectives include:

• strengthening library facilities
• improving the skills of librarians
• improving the skills of teachers in the teaching of reading and librarianship
• supporting the local publishing industry with the purchase of local books
• collaborating with any other organisation engaged in library development and book donation.

As of February 2009, Ghana Book Trust appears to be closed.