Ambassador Bryan Hunt presided over the opening of the upgraded American Corner in Kenema, Sierra Leone. This site is a part of the American Spaces network, which aims to connect locals with the United States. American Corners offer free access to resources and facilitate connections between the two countries. This specific Corner provides a space for studying, dialogue, and community events.
American Spaces boast a long history since the establishment of the first site in Argentina in 1927. Today, over 600 locations exist across 140 countries, including eight in Sierra Leone. In 2023, nearly 30 million individuals worldwide participated in activities held at American Spaces, with over 5,000 of them from Sierra Leone. The initiative seeks to represent the American spirit and promote cultural understanding.
The Sierra Leone Library Board is a valued partner in this venture, collaborating on four American Spaces across the country, featuring locations in Freetown, Makeni, Bo, and Kenema. Ambassador Hunt expressed gratitude to the Chief Librarian and the team at the Library Board for their cooperation and dedication. Acknowledgments were also extended to Isattu Turay, the coordinator, for her six years of service, and Assistant Coordinator Mary Kemokai.
Ambassador Hunt has been involved in various American Spaces programs, highlighting discussions on topics such as press freedom. He praised the programs for facilitating mutual learning opportunities between Americans and Sierra Leoneans.
The Kenema American Corner originated as an American Shelf and has since evolved, incorporating solar panels, new furnishings, and equipment to bolster public programming. Future enhancements include digital research materials and further equipment upgrades. The American Corner will participate in activities marking the 250th birthday of the United States in 2026. Ambassador Hunt thanked the community members for their support and involvement in the Corner’s programs.