Report On The Work Of The 2006 Ghana Library Team

Two team members visiting Good News for the second time reported that they found a much-improved campus and particularly a much improved, though very overcrowded, library. New housing, well-laid out paths, fresh paint, and improved facilities added up to a whole new look on the campus. The number of books acquired has more than doubled since the last visit to Good News in 1999 and nearly all have been made available for use even if not fully processed. Good News is proud of their library and report that many from other institutions use the collection because it contains so much material not available elsewhere.

It was determined that they could not accomplish all that had been proposed particularly since they arrived a day late, and because some equipment and services anticipated for use were not always available. They had to make decisions as to what would be most beneficial for Good News and do what could be done in the time allotted. In spite of the absence of one team member and the unanticipated late arrival of another, the primary objective for this effort was achieved and the team rejoiced in all that was accomplished.

The team selected approximately 2336 books from the shelves for complete cataloguing. That is 28% of the 8457 searchable records that were entered in the catalog database. Team members provided training on use of the database for the staff. Documents were created to support the catalog and provide instruction in use and maintenance. Two of the 5 computers provided by EWI donors were loaded with the catalog and will serve both staff and students. Information was collected that will help EWI in our ongoing effort to support GNTCS in its efforts to train future Christian workers for Ghana. Because of the generosity of EWI donors, funds were used to purchase additional ceiling fans in the library and the reference room, money was set aside for the purchase of books, and a significant sum was given to Good News to be used where needed most.

A preliminary list of needs relating to Good News includes:

1. Academic material (books and periodicals) on African Indigenous Churches for the proposed Center for the study of African Indigenous Churches, or funds designated for the purchase of same; Funds for shipping books and other library materials;
2. A new library facility since the existing facility is extremely overcrowded leaving little study space and using rooms needed as classrooms;
3. Additional computers for the lab;
4. Additional teams to continue to clear the backlog of still un-catalogued material.

Responses From Team Members Following Their Return (Excerpts):

While recognizing that Ghana is a developing country, the team observed much to be admired in the natural habitat, in evidence of development, and in the people, particularly those at Good News. What stands out to one is “the vision and tenacity/patience of the Good News founders and leadership to persevere over years to be able to serve a distinct segment of the Christian population (AIC members).”

Another has written that, “The students at GNTCS are evidence that [God is doing a great work in West Africa] and even a short conversation with them is a source of great encouragement. [These students] have heard God's call and are serious about the opportunity Good News affords them to learn how to answer that call more effectively. And they are not waiting until after their graduation to begin. One young woman returns to her home church regularly to share what she has learned with others 'who cannot come to Good News and attend the classes' she has been privileged to attend. Another, with an active ministry to the disabled, travels several week-ends each month to distant churches to minister. GNTCS is having a huge impact in the AICs they serve -- not only in the lives of the individual students, but in their families, in their churches and in their communities. It has also impacted the lives of those who have volunteered their time and the use of God's gifts to bring encouragement and willing hands to aide in the work of Good News. Everyone who has come … has seen God at work at Good News and has been profoundly moved by the experience."

Another wrote, “I think the library was a task worth undertaking. Although some of the materials are terribly outdated, there seems to be a solid core of good theological material, and it was worth the time to create a database and organize…. How can we [continue to] help?" She added, “We were totally overwhelmed by the welcome and hospitality of our hosts. They took care of every detail, provided for our protection and comfort, and made our stay truly enjoyable — not only the staff, but the students as well.”

Rev. Dr. Oduro, principal of Good News, expressed his support of this effort in the following way: "There are many who are scared at the mention of … Africa… There are also some who are willing to come but think that they are not skilled enough to do any meaningful task. The success story of the library team debunks any of these fears. Encourage people to shake off their fear of Africa and come just as they are. They would … have a useful job to do for the Lord and … will help many people. Once more, we are very grateful …and will forever be indebted to the team."