MOC, with generous support from the Stephen Lewis Foundation (SLF), constructed a community library. The library was officially opened on the 13th of May 2016 by the Right Reverend Archbishop of Harare Archdiocese, Robert Christopher Ndlovu. The library was established with the objective of promoting a strong reading culture (reading for pleasure) within the communities of Mabvuku, Tafara, and Caledonia. It remains open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday 09:00 hours  to 16:00 hours  each week, providing a safe and inclusive space for learning and literacy development.

Under the leadership of the librarian, a dedicated Library Management Committee was established to guide the strategic growth of the facility and ensure its accessibility and relevance, particularly for children and other vulnerable groups. This committee plays a vital role in supporting the library’s operations, enhancing its resourcefulness, and fostering active community engagement. Through planned awareness campaigns and organized activities, the committee encourages broader utilization of the library’s services. The committee is composed of teachers, children from the Child Advisory Board (CAB), volunteers from Shamwari Dzedu, and library ambassadors, who possess a deep understanding of the community’s unique dynamics.

 To sustain operations and ensure accessibility, the library charges a modest fee of US$1 per term for school-going learners from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Advanced Level and US$1 per month for adult members. Learners and graduates of the Mavambo Learning Centre are granted free access to the library. Additionally, members wishing to utilize internet services at the library are required to pay a nominal fee of US$1 for every two hours of usage.

 The library offers:

• Books

The Sr. Kathleen Barbee Blue Lupin Library provides a diverse collection of books designed to support primary, secondary, and tertiary learners. The collection covers a wide range of subjects, including general knowledge, computer science, philosophy, religion, social sciences, languages and literature, arts and recreation, history, geography, and non-fiction works such as novels and children’s books. New Curriculum textbooks, which are scarce in Schools are also available at the library to enrich students’ learning experiences and fill gaps in educational resources.

• E-Resources

The library provides digital reading resources for learners, including devices like Remote Area Community Hotspot for Education and Learning (RACHEL) Plus and Kindle e-readers. These internet and electronic tools serve as valuable complements to traditional books, offering a more engaging and accessible way for users to explore a wide range of materials.

• Spelling / Quiz Competitions

The Sr. Kathleen Barbee Blue Lupin Library encourages students to improve their spelling through tests and quizzes centred on books and current events related to the library. The activities are tailored to the participants’ grade levels, with winners receiving prizes to motivate continued engagement and use of the library’s resources. Ultimately, the initiative aims to foster a lifelong enjoyment of reading.

• Story Writing

Students are encouraged to craft imaginative stories highlighting how the library has impacted their lives, the significance of reading, and the ways in which the library has evolved and benefited them. Prizes are awarded to winners to motivate both them and their peers to regularly utilize the library’s resources and continue exploring its offerings.

• The Chess Club

The Library Chess Club consists of students from primary and secondary schools in Mabvuku, Tafara, and Caledonia. All members are of school age and participate in different tournaments that help enhance their chess skills.

• Outside play Centre and Study area

The SKBBLL also features an outdoor play area that helps children rejuvenate and enhances their concentration, as kids tend to lose focus after extended periods of reading. Additionally, there is an outdoor study space that provides a varied reading environment and encourages group discussions, supporting the learning needs of school-going users.