Interview with New REACH Librarian, Aidah Kimono
Q: Tell us about your background: A: “I was born in Nairobi, Kenya and attended Kibera Primary School. My mother was a housewife and my father a mechanic. I have two brothers and six sisters (all currently living in Mbale). In 2000 my family moved to Mbale, Uganda. There I attended Mbale Secondary School from S1-S6 (six years). Then I went to Uganda Christian University for three years. This is the same university where the Head Master Thomas Kitandwe studied! After that I received a bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science. Before working at Arlington I volunteered in the Mbale Public Library.”
Q: How did you find out about the librarian position at Arlington? A: “I found out about the job from two friends. One friend is currently a worker in the Bupoto Clinic that Arlington runs and the other is a volunteer at the Christian University. They recommended that I apply.”
Q: How do you feel about leaving town and moving to the village? A: “I like it here in Bumwalukani. Many things, such as food, are not as expensive as they are in town. However, there is rarely power and that is something I am not used to. However, I will endure the darkness. Also, in the village people are friendlier and take time to greet each other. This makes me feel welcome and happy. In Mbale Town people are usually very busy- going to work/shopping, and do not take the time to get to know one another.”
Q: What is your favorite food? A: “I enjoy mushroom soup and of course matoke (Uganda staple food- boiled plantain).”
Q: What do you think is your biggest challenge as the new librarian? A: “My biggest challenge is working with the very young children (P1 and P2 classes). I have never dealt with children so young but I am quickly learning how to handle the classes of 50 students and help them appreciate and enjoy the act of reading.”
Q: What is your favorite part of your new job? A: “Although the young children are my greatest challenge, they are also my favorite part of my job. I enjoy reading stories for them and teaching them new things