The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) is asking for more than Sh112 million to repair and maintain three of its key library branches that are falling apart.
The appeal was made during a session with the National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture.
KNLS Chief Executive Officer Dr. Charles Nzivo told the committee that the condition of the Maktaba Kuu (headquarters), and the Buruburu and Nakuru branches is very poor and needs urgent attention.
“Maktaba Kuu, along with Buruburu and Nakuru, are in a severe state of decay,” Dr. Nzivo said.
He added that the Buruburu and Nakuru libraries have not been repaired in over ten years, and stressed their importance in offering public library services across the country.
The session, chaired by Kabete MP Wamacukuru Gathua, also heard that KNLS plans to build new satellite library centres in six regions to help reach more Kenyans.
The proposed locations include Busia, Kirinyaga, Homa Bay, Kitale, Kajiado, Mandera, and Wajir.
Dr. Nzivo said the agency is also struggling with a staff shortage, currently operating with only 165 workers, far below the required 317. He also announced plans to set up a national Conservation and Preservation Laboratory as well as the Kenya School of Professionals to support training in library science.
He appealed to the committee to help KNLS get the necessary funds to meet these goals.
Committee chair Wamacukuru Gathua assured the agency of support. “The Committee will ensure that the National Treasury allocates the necessary funds to KNLS,” he said.
Busia County MP Catherine Omanyo encouraged KNLS to find ways to raise more money on its own by building on its existing revenue sources.
“From your presentation, it’s clear KNLS already has some revenue streams. Consider expanding these to fund more projects,” she said.
Suba South MP Caroli Omondi questioned why Buruburu and Nakuru branches had been neglected for so long, despite their state. He also urged KNLS to speed up the digitisation of its services.
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