KNLS hands over renovated Mandera community library

 Bishop Robert Theuri, Chairman of the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Board cuts the ribbon to officially open the renovated facility that was handed over to the county./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) has officially handed over the newly created Mandera Community Library to the county government.

The move marks a major innovation in expanding access to modern learning resources for students and residents across the county.

The modern library will serve as a gateway to knowledge that will support education, research, and digital learning for generations to come.

The event also marked the completion of two additional community libraries in Lafey and Elwak, which are now ready for commissioning.

The ceremony was led by Bishop Robert Theuri, chairman of the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Board.

Speaking during the event, Dr Charles Nzivo, CEO of KNLS, thanked all partners who contributed to the successful completion of the project, including the national government, the county government of Mandera, the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund, consultants, contractors, and KNLS management.

"Libraries have always been gateways to knowledge, learning and opportunity," said Charlse Nzivo.

"As education continues to evolve, public libraries must also embrace technology to provide learners with the skills and resources they need to thrive in the digital era,” he said.

Mohamed Ali Omar, county executive for social development, said the renovated facility will provide a conducive environment for the learners, students, teachers, researchers, and all members of the community to read, learn, and acquire new skills that contribute to personal and socio-economic development.

“On behalf of the county government of Mandera, I extend our sincere appreciation to the Kenya National Library Service for its invaluable support and partnership in renovating this library. Your investment reflects a strong commitment to empowering our communities through access to knowledge and information,” he said.

“As the county government, we remain committed to working closely with the Kenya National Library Service and other partners to promote a culture of reading and lifelong learning. We also encourage our community to take ownership of this facility by utilising it responsibly and preserving it for future generations,.” he added.

The Mandera Community Library has been transformed into a modern digital learning hub equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, advanced ICT infrastructure, assistive technologies for persons with disabilities, and access to both the KNLS Virtual Library and the Koha Library Management System.

Its expanded collection includes locally published books, academic reference materials, educational toys, and children's learning resources aimed at promoting reading culture, early childhood literacy, and lifelong learning.

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KNLS officials said the upgraded facility will provide students with a conducive environment for studying, conducting research, accessing digital educational content, and preparing for national examinations, particularly for learners who have limited access to internet services at home.

The renovation project was made possible after the KNLS Board secured funding through the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund in 2023 with support from the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage.

Officials said the project demonstrates KNLS's commitment to modernising public libraries and ensuring communities in underserved regions have equal access to quality educational resources and digital services.

With the Mandera Community Library now officially handed over and the Lafey and Elwak libraries awaiting launch, KNLS says the facilities will play a key role in improving literacy, supporting education, and creating opportunities for thousands of learners across Mandera County.