Fenced near the former Chiromo roundabout and the Hotel Boulevard is The National Museums of Kenya. The series of buildings nestled behind a grand entrance has helped define and preserve the beautiful, growing urban capital. But this location isn’t just a picturesque zone; rather, it is credited as a leading information centre, and a congregation site for historians, educationists, cultural and science researchers.
NMK is a corporate body established under the National Museums and Heritage Act of the laws of Kenya. It is tasked with being the custodian of Kenya’s rich and diverse heritage. Under this mandate, NMK contains diverse resources and spearheads activities that contribute to the respect and appreciation of the national heritage of our country for the benefit of Kenyans and the rest of the world.
Within the museum, complex is The Resource Centre, which is divided into the Archives Section and the Library Section. The task of the Archives Section to collect and maintain archives was initiated in 1967. The Section exists to rationalize institution records, as well as acquiring and preserving private records of scientists and organizations. The full programme of the Archives was established 13 years later.
What speaks volumes about this space is the data and items available. Want to travel back in time? You are guaranteed to find information from as far back as 1850, and not just about Kenya and East Africa, but the world. The organization of a plethora of journals, tapes and photographs will make any visitor or members’ search easy.
The Library Section contains over 27,000 rare books, 40,000 reprinted works, and over 350 audiovisual materials from as far back as you, or we can remember. It also includes a state-of-the-art Children’s Corner, which aims to evoke a reading culture among children of all ages. The books vary from exciting and adventurous classical collections to modern works of fiction and even primary and secondary syllabus textbooks – a variety that would appeal to all.
If the vast ocean of information in that section becomes overwhelming, the library has a lounge where visitors and members are welcome to read newspapers, fill out crosswords or watch some television.
The NMK Resource Centre is open to the public on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at a daily rate of Kshs. 150. The helpful staff is always available for any queries or clarifications.
Turns out a visit to the museum is a journey to a world of treasures!
Have you been to the National Museum Resource Centre lately? Let us know what gems you found.
#KeLibraries