Heather McCarthy, a librarian at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School, is leading a remarkable initiative both locally and in Zimbabwe. She has inspired many to raise funds to establish libraries in Zimbabwe. This month, McCarthy will attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first completed library in the African country.
Since 2021, McCarthy has served as the school librarian, after starting her career there as an English teacher in 2005. She expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing children access books, saying, “I know the kids are going to love to have this space, but what I’m most looking forward to is seeing these physical books in their hands, seeing them read.”
Her journey with the project began following a 2024 leadership tour with Tererai Trent, founder of Tererai Trent International, an organization devoted to advancing education in rural Zimbabwe. Trent’s organization supports 14 schools in the region. Seeing the joy of the children at Musukwi Primary School, despite their lack of resources, motivated McCarthy to initiate library building efforts with her students.
Upon learning that their African peers lacked a library, Oak Lawn students were astonished and committed to raising funds to build one. They organized a 6K Walk for Literacy, representing the average distance some children walk for water or school. The event attracted participation from students, staff, and community members, contributing significantly to the fundraising goal.
Additional contributions came from a fundraiser at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park. McCarthy’s goal is to build libraries for the 12 remaining schools, with the campaign hosted on LibrariesforZimbabwe.org, encouraging schools to join through various fundraising events.
McCarthy’s efforts aim to make educational resources accessible, supporting the concept that education can lead to liberation. The school district has shown robust support for the initiative, providing logistical support and participation in fundraising efforts.
Her principal, Sean McNichols, praised McCarthy’s commitment, noting the project exemplifies educational success beyond classroom walls, through literacy and global connections. He acknowledged the significant impact McCarthy’s leadership had on her students, who demonstrated their compassion and global awareness by donating proceeds to the Zimbabwean library.
McCarthy was honored with a Gold Award in the Children’s Education category at the Women Changing the World Awards in Paris, acknowledging her transformative work for children locally and in Africa.
McCarthy emphasized to her students the power of impact at any age, noting their tangible influence worldwide. She believes that early involvement in community service fosters lifelong commitment.
Tererai Trent praised McCarthy’s generosity and dedication, highlighting the profound impact libraries have on advancing education in rural communities. She stressed the importance of sending money instead of materials, enabling local procurement of books in English and Shona.
The library’s opening will host local community leaders, educational officials, and Trent herself, marking a significant milestone for rural education in Zimbabwe. McCarthy’s efforts continue with the school’s 6K Walk for Literacy on October 17, inviting participation and donations at [email protected].
Melinda Moore is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.