River Gee to Open First $45,000 Public Library

Fish Town – River Gee County is set to unveil its first public library, a $45,000 project initiated by the River Gee Association in the Americas (RIGCAA) to enhance educational resources across the county’s six educational districts: Webbo, Sarbo, Potupo, Gbeapo, Tienpo, and Chedepo. The library, scheduled for dedication in early March 2025, marks a significant milestone for students and residents seeking access to expanded learning materials. RIGCAA President Aloyscius S. Benjamin is expected to lead the dedication and official handover ceremony.

The project, led by RIGCAA’s Country Director, Henry Teh, aims to address long-standing gaps in River Gee’s educational infrastructure. “This library will provide students with the research resources that have been lacking in the county,” Teh said. “Many of our high school students struggle with national exams due to limited access to research materials. This library will change that by directly supporting their educational needs.”

The facility will be stocked with approximately 22,000 books and educational materials, transported to Fish Town in two 40-foot containers. The collection includes academic references, textbooks, and general reading books, offering a wide range of resources for students and the wider community.

River Gee County Education Officer (CEO) Jones S. Nyenpan praised RIGCAA’s commitment, underscoring the project’s transformative potential for the local education system. “The association’s efforts are truly commendable. With the library’s opening, the Ministry of Education will work with RIGCAA to train librarians, ensuring the facility operates effectively and remains a valuable asset for years to come,” Nyenpan stated.

RIGCAA’s contributions to River Gee extend beyond this library project. Over the years, the association has supported both education and healthcare in the county. RIGCAA previously donated desktop computers and books to local schools and supplied laptops to medical staff at the River Gee Referral Hospital and Gbeapo Health Center, strengthening healthcare services in the region.

River Gee, one of Liberia’s smallest counties, has a population of 124,653, according to the 2022 census. Since its establishment in 2000, the county’s educational infrastructure has faced numerous challenges. Currently, there are six senior high schools, along with several junior high, elementary, and kindergarten schools across its six districts.

With this first public library, local leaders and residents are hopeful that the facility will improve academic performance and foster a stronger culture of learning in River Gee. The library is expected to provide critical support for students and contribute to the educational development of the entire county.