Donating books to developing countries
July 2008
Disposal agencies distribute medical publications to institutions or agencies in countries which need them. Some organisations are only interested in certain publications and this is indicated where appropriate.
The BMA/BMJ Information Fund was set up to consider requests for health information from organisations in developing countries and other areas of need.
A separate factsheet gives information on antiquarian and secondhand bookshops buying books and journals.
The International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications (INASP) is a co-operative network of partners. Its mission is to enhance the flow of information within and between countries, especially those with less developed systems of publication and dissemination.
Contact them at:
60 St Aldates
Oxford
OX1 1ST,
tel: 01865 249909
fax: 01865 251060
email: inasp@gn.apc.org
Go to the website here
Their web site includes an international directory of organisations working to improve access to reliable information for healthcare workers in developing and transitional countries. It also includes an index by medical specialty.
Addresses of disposal agencies
Commonwealth Pharmaceutical Association (CPA)
1 Lambeth High Street
London
SE1 7JN
tel: 020 7820 3399 ext. 303
fax: 020 7582 3401
email: eharden@rpsgb.org.uk
CPA website
CPA is responsible for Pharmaid, the yearly scheme whereby each November (for one week only), the two most recently obsolete editions of the BNF and the last edition of Martindale can be dropped off at any Vantage pharmacy (or the pharmacy receiving deliveries from AAH/Vantage). The books are then transported to Book Aid International for distribution to health professionals in developing countries, thus saving the donor the cost of postage.
Contact CPA or watch the health press during September for the date of Pharmaid week. CPA also puts those wishing to donate old pharmaceutical journals in touch with pharmacy schools in developing countries.
Education Aid
PO Box 3855
London
NW9 9LZ
tel: 020 8204 4494
fax: 020 8204 4494
email: educationaid@aol.com
voicemail: 0881 101350
Education Aid distributes books (no more than 15 years old) and journals to developing countries. They will collect publications from organisations and individuals. Education Aid also organises special events for World Book Day on 23 April each year.
North Central London College
67 Elliot Rd
Hendon
London
NW4 3EB
email: mail@nclcollege.org
tel 0208 457 3962 0796 105 3077
fax 020 8203 1682
North Central London College website
The College was founded by Dr Nayeem Azim. himself a doctor from Afghanistan. As a result of his own experiences in studying for the PLAB tests, Dr Azim decided to create a college for overseas doctors. He also organises shipments of books and equipment.
Gaza Library Project
8 Denys Lane
Kelsale
Saxmundham
Suffolk
IP17 2PD
tel: 01728 603379
secretary: Mr Michael Payne
email: 106141.2003@compuserve.com
The GLP aims to establish high quality libraries in Palestine. It accepts books and periodicals in all fields. Donors should contact the Secretary who will arrange collection.