Aligned with the visionary agenda of H.E Governor Sakaja Arthur Johnson to develop and improve libraries and instill a culture of reading in Nairobi City County, the successful transition of Kibra Community Library to the management of the Nairobi County Government marks a significant step forward. This move is poised to provide city residents with a space for reading, socializing, and exchanging ideas.
The Kibra Community Library plays an important role in promoting literacy across all age groups within the community, offering resources ranging from early childhood development programs to adult education materials. By facilitating access to reading materials and learning resources, the library facilitates improved job opportunities, higher levels of education, and a more engaged and informed citizenry.
Faith Juma, the Deputy Librarian, underscores the library’s pivotal role in making knowledge accessible thus fostering a well informed and active citizenship. She notes, “The Kibra Community Library not only satisfies the community’s information needs but also serves as a platform for social interaction in today’s context.”
Functioning as a vibrant community hub, the library hosts various events such as book clubs and workshops, fostering meaningful connections among individuals. Moreover, it offers meeting spaces for local organizations and businesses, further nurturing community cohesion.
Florence Kiayi, the Librarian, highlights the library’s forward-thinking approach to education, particularly evident in its dedicated Kids Zone. This section prioritizes early brain development initiatives, contributing to enhanced academic performance among school-going children in Nairobi County.
The Kibra Community Library extends its outreach by establishing mini libraries in public schools within the area. These initiatives create inclusive environments where individuals can access reading materials, study, and engage with others. Furthermore, the library has policies to ensure that all community members feel welcomed and respected within its premises.
Emphasizing the ethos of sharing and collaboration, Faith Juma emphasizes, “One doesn’t always have to purchase a new book; they can be borrowed, read, and returned.” This has fostered a culture of lending and borrowing within the community.
Libraries play an indispensable role in community development by providing access to information and resources that facilitate personal and professional growth. By serving as focal points for literacy and lifelong learning, libraries like the Kibra Community Library contribute significantly to the social fabric and intellectual vitality of Nairobi City County.
