Good News - September 2025 Stories from the Field

Many children are looking to the library in Susu, and finding joy in the new preschool program, wonderful books and educational resources, Bible stories and community engagement. The EL libraries in both Zambia and Malawi provide a place to grow and learn about the world outside of their communities. In this Good News newsletter you will hear from our directors Mr. Kenneth (Zambia) & Mr. Jacob (Malawi) directly in their letters “from the field” about all the many wonderful projects and programs underway.

Susu Community Library: Early Education Program

Every Saturday the Susu Community Library opens its doors to a new world of discovery. For the children of Susu, this day has become one of the most exciting moments of their week. It is more than just reading books, it is a time of exploring, questioning, and experiencing the joy of learning together.

This past Saturday was no exception. The children gathered in their usual vibrant groups eager to dive into stories, lessons, and creative activities. A highlight of the day was putting together the solar system puzzle. The children worked diligently piece by piece, to build a picture of the planets that orbit our sun.

What made the activity remarkable was not just the completion of the puzzle, but the teamwork, the excitement, and curiosity the children displayed. As they placed each planet in its rightful position, they recalled facts they had learned about size, distance, and rotation. The puzzle was more than a game, it became a lesson in science, problem-solving, and cooperation.

The atmosphere was filled with joy. Smiles and laughter echoed through the library as the children proudly pointed to the finished puzzle, now a colorful map of the solar system. For many this was the first time they had seen the planets come together in such a practical way. For others, it was a moment of realization; knowledge from their books had become something they could touch, build, and understand.

The Susu Community Library continues to grow as a center of knowledge and inspiration. Every Saturday, children not only improve their reading skills but also build confidence, teamwork, and a sense of wonder about the world around them. The solar system puzzle is just one example of how learning can be both fun and impactful.

For the children of Susu, each Saturday is a doorway to discovery, as well as for the community. These young learners are a shining reminder to us that education, when nurtured, can transform lives and light the path to a brighter future.

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Susu Community Library: Expands Its Early Childhood Education Program

Susu Community Library is thrilled to announce the extension of the Early Childhood Education Program to include Wednesday sessions. This marks an exciting step forward in our mission to nurture a culture of reading, learning, and discovery among children in our community.

Last Wednesday was our first midweek session, and the response was so encouraging. The library was alive with 58 children filling the space with energy, laughter, and the unmistakable joy of learning. The rooms were full of activities, full of fun, and yes, even full of children’s cheerful noise that reminds us why this work is so important.

The children were divided into two groups, those who are not yet in school and those in preschool and Grade One. This approach allows us to tailor activities to their specific learning levels and provide the right foundation for growth.

Adding to the excitement was the arrival of Boxes of Blessings containing books, puzzles, games and toys; bringing a new wave of motivation. The children are not only reading more but also learning through play, teamwork, and problem-solving. With the help of our assessment record sheets, we are able to track progress, giving us valuable insight into each child’s learning journey.

The Susu Community Library remains committed to orienting the community on the importance of education and creating opportunities that will inspire children to dream big. With each new program and with every child who walks through our doors, we realize the importance of this work.

Reports by Kenneth K. Director of EL Zambia

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Village Outreach

At 54 years old, Mr. James Chingwalu had been struggling with poor eyesight for years. As a devoted Christian, his greatest challenge was reading the Bible, a book he cherishes deeply. His old eyeglasses were worn-out and broken, they had no handles. This forced him to hold them in place with one hand while trying to read with the other, making every reading session both uncomfortable and tiring.

Walking also became a risky task. Because of poor vision he found it difficult to go to church, the market, or visit friends and family. Holding his glasses with one hand while trying to move around left him vulnerable to falls and injury. He shares, "My life was at risk every time I moved around.” That risk is now gone for Mr Chingwalu when an ELI donor gave a brand-new pair of eyeglasses for him.

With gratitude and joy, Mr. Chingwalu expressed, “These new glasses have restored my freedom. I can now walk, read, and do things on my own without fear. I am truly thankful to Elizabeth’s Library for this precious gift.”

This donation may seem small to some, but for Mr. Chingwalu, it has brought the joy of reading his Bible again, independence, and proof that a simple act of kindness can change a life forever.

Reports by Jacob H, EL Director of Malawi

A special thank you to the ELI donor, who contributed reader glasses to tuck in our Boxes of Blessings.

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We know you have rejoiced with us as you read what your prayers and financial gifts are accomplishing. Eli would truly appreciate a generous gift to help meet operational expenses and grow our programs. Any amount would be a blessing. The number of children attending the Susu Library Early Education Program has already exceeded our expectations, and additional funding to purchase food commodities is needed. Please prayerfully consider a special donation, so these young "learners" can enjoy a much needed nutritious meal. Thank you from all of us at ELI.