An Oak Lawn school librarian, Heather McCarthy, is expanding her impact locally and globally. She is inspiring others to help build libraries in Zimbabwe. This month, she will attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first completed library there.
Bringing Books to Zimbabwe
McCarthy, the librarian at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School since 2021, began her journey as an English teacher in 2005. She expressed excitement about the upcoming visit, stating, “I’ll bring back lots of pictures and videos for everyone who helped make it possible.” Her primary joy is seeing Zimbabwean children receive books they never had access to before. “I really can’t wait to see books in their hands,” she shared.
The initiative began when McCarthy visited Musukwi Primary School during a 2024 leadership tour with Tererai Trent, founder of Tererai Trent International, a nonprofit based in rural Zimbabwe. The organization supports 14 rural schools to promote education. The conditions at the school left her both joyous and saddened. Her students were surprised to learn that their counterparts lacked basic resources like libraries.
Community-Driven Fundraising
Motivated to act, McCarthy and her students decided to raise funds. They organized their annual 5K Walk for Literacy as a 6K, symbolizing the average distance students walk for water or to reach school. “The entire community of Oak Lawn participated,” McCarthy explained, highlighting the diverse support from local schools, staff, and community members.
They raised $25,000 through various events, including a fundraiser at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park. Other schools also expressed interest in helping, aiming to establish libraries for 12 more schools. To achieve the $300,000 goal, McCarthy launched LibrariesforZimbabwe.org. Schools can join the effort by hosting events like walks or read-a-thons.
Recognition and Future Goals
McCarthy’s efforts earned her a Gold Award in the Children’s Education category at the Women Changing the World Awards and Summit in Paris. “The judges were impressed by her ability to mobilize her local community to aid children in Africa,” said Peace Mitchell, co-founder of the summit. McCarthy aims to show her students the global impact they can make, stating that early involvement in community service can lead to lifelong commitment.
Supporting Zimbabwean Education
Tererai Trent expressed gratitude for McCarthy’s dedication, emphasizing the importance of libraries in impoverished areas. Libraries provide essential resources and foster educational opportunities, breaking cycles of poverty by enhancing literacy and knowledge.
To overcome high shipping costs, McCarthy prioritizes sending funds to buy books in both English and Shona, thus supporting the local economy. The grand opening will feature local representatives, officials, and community leaders, with McCarthy cutting the ceremonial ribbon. Trent highlighted the emotional impact of McCarthy’s ambitious project, praising her for taking this initiative.
While the first library marks a significant milestone, McCarthy’s work continues. The next 6K Walk for Literacy is set for Oct. 17. Those interested in contributing can contact her at [email protected].
Melinda Moore is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
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