"2004 marked the 50th anniversary of the major UK book charity Book Aid International (BAI), which is active in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, and is involved in strengthening the book chain, building capacity, and leadership skills, supporting advocacy and resource mobilization, hosting training workshops, and working with both African partners and Northern organizations. This article is an appraisal of BAI’s many and diverse activities that aim to empower people and communities in Africa through access to books and appropriate information. The article also looks at aspects of monitoring and evaluation of BAI’s and its partners’ work." (Hans M. Zell, Publishing, Books & Reading in Sub-Saharan Africa, 3d ed. 2008, nr. 1425)