This toolkit provides comprehensive guidance for developing and enacting effective national book and reading policies across the African continent. It emphasizes the crucial role of books and reading in education, cultural development, and socio-economic progress. The toolkit is structured to assist policymakers, educators, and stakeholders in understanding the key components of a robust national reading policy, which include creating a supportive legal framework, securing sustainable funding, and ensuring widespread access to reading materials.

Key elements highlighted in the toolkit are the importance of stakeholder engagement, the development of local content, and the promotion of a reading culture through public awareness campaigns. It also outlines strategies for effective policy implementation, including monitoring and evaluation frameworks to measure progress and impact.

The document is designed to be practical, providing a step-by-step approach to policy formulation, from initial assessment and planning to execution and review. It encourages collaboration among governments, private sector partners, and civil society organizations to create a cohesive and inclusive reading environment.