Books! There’s something about them, whether old or new. The feel of the pages against your fingers, or, in our digital era, the ability to sit in one place and have access to unlimited books through the click of a button.
The history of Kenya’s libraries ties back to the first European settlers in Kenya. Historical records indicate that the first library was set up in 1887, primarily for missionary work, by The Church Mission Society. Although it was located within a mission station in Frere Town (near Mombasa), it was a private library that served the missionaries. Soon, more information hubs were set up, and in 1902, the High Court of Kenya Library was established in Mombasa.
A turnaround in community needs in 1903 saw the establishment of the first public library – Sir Seif Bin Salim Public Library and Reading Room. Asian philanthropists donated funds and set up the structure that would cater for the information needs of both the Asian as well as the European communities.
By 1905, with railway construction underway and the development of the former swampy region into a bustling town, the High Court of Kenya Library was relocated to Nairobi. As the capital grew, American-born Kenyan settler, Lady Lucie McMillan oversaw the construction of the McMillan Library. The library was in honour of her late husband Sir William Northup McMillan and was set up at a central location within the business district. Lady McMillan’s efforts were followed closely behind by Nairobi-based Asians who saw the need to set up a public library. The third library in Nairobi became the Desai Memorial Library in honour of Manilal A. Desai – a man remembered for his tenacity in fighting for equality for both Asians and Africans.
Despite these establishments of these libraries, none were accessible to Africans – with the exception of the Desai Memorial Library. This was probably due to low literacy levels, available content and the likely presence of race class groups.
Today, however, Kenya boasts of libraries accessible to general public. These are great locations to journey back in time.
Herein are the stories of the publicly accessible libraries in the +254, delve into the book projects taking place, and celebrate our reading culture.
#PaukwaStories #KeLibraries
