Dr Mrs Shields Reconstructs, Reopens Mary Slessor Library in Arochukwu @ 97
The Old Mary Slessor Library in Arochukwu, Abia State, has been officially commissioned and dedicated for public use, following its reconstruction and refurbishment by 97-year-old Dr Mrs Nwanganga Shields.
Dr Mrs Shields, who travelled from the United States with her son, Engr Kenneth Chijioke Shields, and was joined by her cousin, Dupe Coyx, who came from London, was honoured by Eze Aro Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji for her contribution to the revival of the historic library.
Speaking, His Eminence Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji emphasized that she funded the reconstruction of the library and also mobilised donors from different parts of the world to provide books for its shelves.
During the commissioning and dedication ceremony on Friday, the representative of the Prelate of the Presbyterian Church offered prayers dedicating the facility to the glory of God and for the benefit of generations of Arochukwu people.
Explaining the motivation behind the project, Dr. Mrs. Shields said her decision to rebuild the library was inspired by her childhood experience at the Obinkita Mission House, where her father served as headmaster.
According to her, the books in her father’s library exposed her to a wider world of knowledge as a child and shaped her appreciation for education.
Eze Aro applauded all Umu-Aro for their support towards the project and especially Mazi Christopher Oti for contributing towards the installation of solar panels and an inverter to provide power for the library.
Eze Aro also expressed gratitude to Dr. Mrs. Shields for the landmark contribution to the Arochukwu Kingdom.
He also appreciated all individuals who donated books to stock the library and Umu Aro worldwide for supporting the vision.
At the end of the commissioning ceremony, Eze Aro, with the entire audience, made the official groundbreaking ceremony for Arochukwu Innovation Hub, with a promise of completing the project in 12 calendar months. According to him, Arochukwu Kingdom can not be lagging behind while most societies are making progress with digital technology. The Innovation hub will equip Umu-Aro to join the rest of the world to tap into the potential of information technology and use it to develop its communities. Traditional dancing troupe entertained the audience.