The new library of the Strathmore World Council African Management Institute (SWAMI) opened on June 19, 2006 and includes book donations from two organisations based in the United States:  Credit Union Executives Society (CUES) and the Filene Research Institute. 

The books, valued at more than $11,000, will help stock a library at Strathmore University for credit union staff and board members who are participating in the SWAMI program.  The books include a variety of titles covering board and employee issues, operations, strategic planning and business principles.

"Libraries are the repository of ideas, and as a research institute, we're happy to contribute books that will serve as references and guides for individuals committed to furthering their education in the management and operation of credit unions," said Robert Hoel, executive director, Filene Research Institute.

Rose Bartolomucci, CUES' chairman of the board of directors and president/CEO, Kent Credit Union, Kent, Ohio added, "Credit unions and libraries are at the heart of a community.  It's our hope that donating these books will serve the credit union community for many years."

SWAMI was developed by the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) and the Strathmore University to prepare senior management staff, aspiring managers and board members to handle the challenges SACCOs face in today's challenging environment. 

CUES is a Madison, Wisconsin-based independent membership association for credit union executives worldwide.  Its mission is to advance the professional development of credit union CEOs, senior management and directors.

The non-profit Filene Research Institute, also based in Madison, Wisconsin, examines vital issues affecting the future of credit unions and consumer finance. More than 1,500 credit unions, credit union organisations, and credit union executives are members of the Institute.