Cardano Crypto Library Contribution: Empowering Libraries with Blockchain Knowledge

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Kibir Girma Esheto

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Individual

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

6

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

 blockchain books to libraries worldwide, providing accessible educational resources that promote public understanding of Cardano and decentralized technologies.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependencies.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

The project will be fully open-source under the MIT license, ensuring that all resources, including digital book collections and educational materials, are freely accessible to the public. The repository will include curated reading lists, guides, and any code or platform development related to the digital distribution of eBooks to libraries. This will allow other communities and institutions to replicate or build upon the project, fostering wider dissemination of blockchain knowledge.

[METADATA] Horizons

Education

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our proposed solution is to donate curated collections of high-quality books and resources about blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Cardano to major libraries around the world. The problem we are addressing is the lack of accessible and reliable information about these transformative technologies in mainstream educational spaces. Libraries are crucial hubs for learning and knowledge dissemination, yet they lack updated crypto resources. By donating curated collections focused on Cardano, we ensure that both students and the public have access to accurate, in-depth knowledge on decentralized technologies.

Our approach focuses on leveraging existing library infrastructure to expand access to these resources, engaging not only libraries but also the communities they serve. We will collaborate with library systems, offering both physical and digital resources, ensuring broad accessibility. Additionally, we will host educational events, such as “Crypto Days” or workshops, to deepen engagement and practical understanding.

Our impact will be measured by the number of books donated, partnerships formed, and events conducted, alongside reader feedback. Beneficiaries include students, educators, and researchers, but also the general public who seek reliable resources on cryptocurrency. This project is important for Cardano as it promotes understanding of its ecosystem, driving adoption and fostering new contributors to the community.

The unique aspect of this solution is its focus on direct knowledge dissemination through trusted public institutions, ensuring that Cardano and blockchain education reaches people in an accessible and impactful way.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Our project will have a significant positive impact on the wider Cardano community by enhancing public understanding and adoption of Cardano technology through library networks. By making curated blockchain and Cardano-focused resources accessible in libraries worldwide, we will introduce Cardano to a broader audience, fostering an informed and engaged community.

Impact on the Cardano Community:

1. Increased Awareness: By donating Cardano-focused books to libraries, we will raise awareness about the ecosystem among students, researchers, and the general public, encouraging them to explore and engage with Cardano.
2. Education and Skill Development: Providing quality educational resources will help individuals learn about blockchain, smart contracts, and decentralized finance, empowering new developers, innovators, and users within the Cardano ecosystem.
3. Global Outreach: Partnering with libraries allows us to reach communities globally, particularly those who may not have had access to accurate information about Cardano.

Measuring Impact:

• Quantitative Metrics: We will track the number of libraries receiving the donations, books borrowed, and digital resource access rates. Additionally, event participation during workshops or “Crypto Days” will be monitored.
• Qualitative Metrics: Feedback from librarians and readers will be gathered to evaluate the impact on knowledge growth and interest in Cardano.

Sharing Outputs:

• Open-Source Repository: All educational materials, book lists, and guides will be shared via an open-source repository under the MIT license.
• Community Reports: Regular updates will be provided to the Cardano community through forums like Project Catalyst and social media platforms, including success stories, testimonials, and data on the impact of the donations.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

We are confident in our capability to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability based on our experience in the blockchain space, partnerships, and a clear project roadmap. Our team has a strong track record of successfully delivering educational initiatives and blockchain projects, making us well-suited for this proposal.

Existing Capabilities:

1. Experienced Team:

• Our team comprises blockchain educators, content creators, and developers with in-depth knowledge of the Cardano ecosystem. We have experience in curating educational resources, managing community-driven projects, and delivering large-scale initiatives on time and within budget.

1. Proven Delivery of Blockchain Education:

• We have previously launched educational programs in the crypto space, including workshops and webinars, contributing to broader community understanding of blockchain and decentralized finance. This experience positions us well to create a successful, impactful library contribution initiative.

1. Established Network:

• We have strong connections with libraries, educational institutions, and crypto communities, which will facilitate the smooth execution of the project. These partnerships will help ensure the donated materials are utilized effectively and reach the intended audiences.

Feasibility & Validation:

1. Pilot Program:

• To validate the feasibility of the project, we will run a pilot program by contributing a smaller selection of Cardano-focused books to a few libraries. This will allow us to gather feedback from librarians and users, assessing interest and engagement before scaling to a wider audience.

1. Collaborative Feedback Mechanism:

• We will establish a feedback loop with librarians and library users to understand how the resources are being utilized and whether adjustments are needed to better meet the needs of the community. This continuous feedback will help ensure that the project remains relevant and impactful.

Financial Accountability:

1. Transparent Fund Management:

• We will ensure transparency by publishing regular financial reports, detailing how funds are allocated and spent. This includes book purchases, shipping, and any event or workshop costs. All transactions will be recorded and shared with the community for full accountability.

1. Fund Segmentation:

• We will implement a segmented budget where specific amounts are allocated to different aspects of the project (book procurement, events, digital resources), ensuring proper and targeted use of funds. This structure will help avoid overspending in any area and maintain financial discipline.

1. Open-Source Documentation:

• In line with our open-source approach, all project documentation, including financial tracking, will be shared on platforms accessible to the Cardano community to build trust and accountability throughout the project's lifecycle.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

 Library Partnerships and Book Selection (Month 1-2)

Acceptance Criteria:

• Identify and establish partnerships with 10+ major libraries globally.
• Curate a list of 50+ blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Cardano-focused books (both physical and digital).
• Secure agreements with libraries to create dedicated crypto sections.

Book Procurement and Initial Distribution (Month 3-4)

Acceptance Criteria:

• Purchase and secure donations of 100+ curated books (physical and digital formats).
• Distribute books to at least 5 libraries, ensuring delivery and installation in the agreed sections.
• Monitor initial feedback from librarians and users on the relevance and quality of materials.

Digital Library Integration and Pilot Event Launch (Month 5-6)

Acceptance Criteria:

• Integrate donated books into the digital catalogs of 3+ libraries for broader access.
• Organize 3 pilot "Crypto Days" workshops in selected libraries to engage the community.
• Collect and analyze feedback on event participation and the community’s interest in Cardano and crypto knowledge.

Scaling and Wider Outreach (Month 7-9)

Acceptance Criteria:

• Expand the donation program to 10 more libraries, distributing an additional 200+ books.
• Publish online guides for libraries to access the Cardano-focused digital collection.
• Track metrics on book borrow rates, digital downloads, and user engagement.

 Project Close-out Report and Final Review (Month 10-12)

Acceptance Criteria:

• Compile a comprehensive Project Close-out Report summarizing the impact, including data on book donations, user engagement, and library partnerships.
• Produce a final video documenting key outcomes, success stories, and lessons learned.
• Share all reports and videos with the Cardano community through Project Catalyst, social media, and open-source platforms.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Kibir Girma (Project Lead)

• Role: Overseeing the project’s development, managing partnerships with libraries, and ensuring the successful distribution of resources.
• Responsibilities:
• Lead all communications with library partners.
• Ensure the quality and relevance of curated educational materials.
• Coordinate team efforts and manage the project timeline and budget.

1. Content Curator & Researcher

• Role: Responsible for researching and curating blockchain and Cardano-focused books for distribution.
• Responsibilities:
• Select books and materials that align with the project's goals.
• Work with publishers and authors to secure donations and rights for digital content.

1. Logistics Manager

• Role: Manage the logistics of acquiring, distributing, and tracking the delivery of physical and digital books.
• Responsibilities:
• Coordinate the shipment of books to libraries worldwide.
• Ensure books are installed in the proper sections.
• Track the success of deliveries and partnerships.

1. Community & Events Manager

• Role: Organize and manage community events such as “Crypto Days” and workshops in collaboration with libraries.
• Responsibilities:
• Organize community engagement events in libraries to promote Cardano.
• Collect feedback from event participants and track engagement.

1. Technical Lead - Digital Integration

• Role: Responsible for integrating digital resources into the libraries’ digital catalogs and ensuring accessibility.
• Responsibilities:
• Ensure that digital books are properly cataloged and accessible in library systems.
• Manage open-source repository for digital educational materials.

Planned Recruitment:

We may recruit additional team members as the project scales. Key skills needed include:

1. Blockchain Developers – to help build any technical components related to book lending via the Cardano blockchain.
2. Event Coordinators – to manage larger-scale educational events.
3. Partnership Managers – to expand our network of library partnerships globally.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

1. Book Procurement & Curation (15,000 ADA)

• Description: Costs for purchasing and curating high-quality blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Cardano-focused books, including both physical and digital formats.
• Cost Breakdown:
• Purchase of 200+ books: 12,000 ADA
• Digital rights and eBook licenses: 3,000 ADA

2. Logistics & Distribution (10,000 ADA)

• Description: Shipping and distribution of physical books to global libraries.
• Cost Breakdown:
• Shipping costs for 15+ libraries: 6,000 ADA
• Packaging and handling: 2,000 ADA
• Customs and import fees: 2,000 ADA

3. Event Management & Community Engagement (8,000 ADA)

• Description: Organizing “Crypto Days” and workshops in selected libraries to engage communities and promote the use of Cardano.
• Cost Breakdown:
• Event logistics (venue, materials, promotional items): 4,000 ADA
• Travel expenses for event speakers/trainers: 3,000 ADA
• Marketing and community outreach for events: 1,000 ADA

4. Digital Integration & Technical Setup (7,000 ADA)

• Description: Integration of digital books into the libraries’ digital catalogs and development of open-source resources.
• Cost Breakdown:
• Development of digital library platform integration: 4,000 ADA
• Open-source repository setup and maintenance: 1,500 ADA
• Technical support for library onboarding: 1,500 ADA

5. Project Management & Reporting (6,000 ADA)

• Description: Managing the overall project, including coordination, reporting, and communication with the Cardano community.
• Cost Breakdown:
• Project management and coordination: 3,000 ADA
• Monthly progress reporting to the community: 1,500 ADA
• Final project close-out report and video production: 1,500 ADA

6. Marketing & Promotion (5,000 ADA)

• Description: Promoting the project to libraries, communities, and the broader Cardano community through various media channels.
• Cost Breakdown:
• Social media campaigns: 2,500 ADA
• Library partnership outreach materials: 1,500 ADA
• Content creation (videos, articles) for the Cardano community: 1,000 ADA

7. Contingency Fund (9,000 ADA)

• Description: Reserved for unforeseen expenses that may arise during the project.
• Cost Breakdown:
• 9,000 ADA set aside for unexpected costs (logistics, technical issues, etc.)

Third-Party Services:

• Shipping Partners: Partnering with logistics companies for global distribution of books.
• Digital Rights Providers: For acquiring licenses to distribute digital versions of the books.
• Event Venues: Local venues for Crypto Days and community engagement events.
• Marketing Agencies: For executing promotional campaigns and creating outreach materials.

Alternative Sources of Funding:

• We are exploring partnerships with publishing companies and educational organizations to secure book donations or reduced rates for some of the resources.
• Potential sponsorships from blockchain-related companies to support community engagement events.

Total Budget: 60,000 ADA

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The Cardano Crypto Library Contribution project offers tremendous value for the Cardano ecosystem by promoting widespread education and awareness of blockchain technology, particularly focusing on Cardano. The cost of 60,000 ADA is a well-justified investment when considering the broad and lasting impact this project will have on expanding access to reliable cryptocurrency resources.

Key Justifications:

1. Global Reach & Impact:

• By donating curated crypto and Cardano-focused books to libraries worldwide, this project will introduce blockchain technology to a global audience. The long-term educational value from these resources far outweighs the upfront costs.
• Partnering with libraries, which serve as trusted community hubs, ensures that the knowledge reaches diverse audiences that might not otherwise access blockchain education.

1. Cost Efficiency of Resources:

• The procurement and distribution of both physical and digital books are vital investments to spread awareness. Our book procurement budget has been carefully planned by leveraging bulk purchase discounts and securing partnerships with publishers.
• Digital integration ensures that once these resources are delivered, they will be accessible to many more people for years, making the cost per learner significantly low.

1. Community Engagement Through Events:

• The budget allocated for “Crypto Days” and workshops is modest when considering the direct interaction with communities. These events will generate interest in Cardano and inspire potential new developers, investors, and users to explore the ecosystem.
• The relatively low event cost ensures that we are reaching high engagement at a minimal price.

1. Transparent Management of Funds:

• Every aspect of the project’s budget, from procurement to logistics to community outreach, has been carefully planned to ensure maximum efficiency. The project management and reporting costs are modest given the importance of keeping the community informed about progress and outcomes.
• We have allocated a contingency fund to prevent overspending and ensure that any unforeseen costs are managed without disrupting the project’s core goals.

1. Supporting Evidence:

• Costs are aligned with average rates in the education and logistics industries in our region, and digital licensing costs have been negotiated with publishers to ensure affordability. Event costs and marketing efforts are also scaled to ensure a balance between impact and resource use.
• By keeping overhead costs (e.g., marketing and project management) low, we ensure that most of the budget goes directly toward delivering value through books, educational events, and digital resource integration.

Value to the Cardano Ecosystem:

This project represents an excellent value-for-money proposition because it contributes to long-term growth by educating people globally about Cardano. The ripple effect of this awareness and education could lead to increased adoption of Cardano, new projects, and innovations that will further enrich the ecosystem.