The Library project
Chitimba Community Library Project
Bringing Knowledge Closer, One Book at a Time
A library has been built in the heart of Chitimba village, funded by R World in memory of Robbie Curtis. This project honors Robbie’s love for reading and his dream of helping others in Africa.
How and Why 'Chitimba Community Library' Was Created
My son Robbie Curtis is the reason that the people of Chitimba have this beautiful library. Robbie’s wish to work and travel in Africa inspired its creation, and the library embodies all that Robbie stood for. He was very intelligent, loved reading, and was kind and compassionate. Robbie had just been awarded a prestigious scholarship to study Policy, Environment, and Development at a Master's Degree level, but sadly he passed away in 2020, and this wasn’t to be. Nevertheless, Robbie’s spirit has been the driving force behind the Chitimba Community Library, making it possible.
R World
In 2021, R World was created in memory of Robbie and soon joined hands with the Brown Munthali Foundation. We succeeded in raising enough money through donations to fund the entire build, furnish it with chairs and tables, and send 2,000 books and 6 computers. During my visit to Chitimba in 2023, my colleague Caroline Freeland and I saw the foundations being laid and joined the people of Chitimba in making bricks. I would love to return to Chitimba when the library is fully operational and visit my good friend Brown and his team.
Lesley Curtis and the R World Team:
Lydia Fallon, Erin Quigley, Diane Baxter, Charlie Song-Smith
Visit: www.rworld.org.uk
The closest library was previously over 3.5 hours away. Now, children at HAJIMAC Academy and the local Chitimba community finally have access to knowledge and learning opportunities near home.
The library building is complete, but we still need books, computers, desks, and learning materials to bring it to life for the children and the community.
Who Will Benefit?
- Students from HAJIMAC Academy and surrounding schools
- Orphans and vulnerable children supported by the Brown Munthali Foundation
- Youth and adults from surrounding villages
- Teachers and community educators
Why This Library Matters
- Encourages reading and literacy in rural Malawi
- Supports academic growth and lifelong learning
- Reduces barriers to education in remote areas
- Inspires hope, imagination, and opportunity
This library is more than just a building—it’s a gateway to opportunity and a future full of knowledge, dignity, and hope.
