Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Congressional Research Service
Official summary
Version 00 · Introduced in House · Oct 1, 2009
More Books for Africa Act of 2009 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the availability of textbooks and library books is a critical component of the U.S. investment in primary, secondary, higher, and adult community education; and (2) the donation of textbooks and library books is a powerful diplomatic tool.
Directs the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to establish the More Books for Africa Program to facilitate the donation and distribution of not fewer than 3 million text and library books per year to African schools, libraries, and community learning centers in partnership with U.S.-based entities.
Provides that: (1) Program books may come only from unrestricted donations from citizens, not-for-profits, educational institutions, libraries, and private companies; (2) the Program shall encourage partnerships with faith-based organizations, community organizations, K-12 educational institutions, and private companies; (3) the Program shall encourage partnerships with African ministries of education; and (4) the Program shall encourage U.S. Ambassadors to African countries to make the establishment of libraries and donations of books to schools on behalf of the United States a priority.
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Source last updated: Aug 14, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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