KNLS seeks Sh112m to revamp ageing libraries amid staff shortage and expansion plans
Nzivo said that the library service is struggling with a serious staff shortage, operating with only 165 employees against a required 317.
The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) has asked for over Sh112 million to repair three of its oldest and most neglected branches, warning that the facilities are in poor condition and in urgent need of attention.
Dr Charles Nzivo, the KNLS chief executive officer, told the National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture on Wednesday that the main branch, Maktaba Kuu, along with the Buruburu and Nakuru libraries, is in serious disrepair and has not seen major repairs in over ten years.
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“Maktaba Kuu, which serves as our headquarters, along with our Buruburu and Nakuru branches, are in a severe state of decay,” he said.
Appearing before the committee during a session led by Kabete MP Githua Wamacukuru, Nzivo explained that these three libraries are central to the delivery of library services across the country.
He urged the committee to help KNLS secure the necessary funding for their rehabilitation.
The agency is also planning to build satellite centres in different parts of the country to make library services more accessible.
The proposed centres will be located in Busia, Kirinyaga, Homa Bay, Kitale, Kajiado, Mandera, and Wajir.
Besides expanding its reach, KNLS is looking to improve its services by setting up a conservation and preservation laboratory and a Kenya School of Professionals.
However, Nzivo said that the library service is struggling with a serious staff shortage, operating with only 165 employees against a required 317.
He asked the committee to support the organisation in meeting its long-term goals by allocating more resources through the national budget.
“The Committee will fulfil its mandate by ensuring that the necessary funds are allocated to KNLS through the National Treasury,” Wamacukuru said, pledging support for KNLS during the session.
Busia MP Catherine Omanyo advised the agency to think beyond public funding and look at ways of growing its own revenue.
“From your presentation, it’s clear that KNLS has revenue streams. Consider expanding these to fund additional income-generating ventures,” she said.
Suba South MP Caroli Omondi asked why the Buruburu and Nakuru facilities had not been addressed in earlier budgets despite their poor conditions.
He also urged KNLS to speed up the process of digitising its services to meet the changing needs of users
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