This article covers Kenya National Library charges. The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) is a Government State Corporation, established by the KNLS Board Act Cap 225 of the Laws of Kenya in 1965 – revised [Act No. 12 of 1984].
KNLS’ headquarters is at Maktaba Kuu Building located in Upper Hill Nairobi and has two other facilities at Buruburu in the Eastland Areas of Nairobi, and Nakuru in Nakuru County. KNLS also manages the virtual library to allow the public access to information resources and sources.
Kenya National Library Upper Hill
The library’s architecture is stunning, providing a lovely environment for learning, encouragement, and serenity. It is divided into sections for children, teenagers, adults, and senior citizens, each with age-appropriate literature. The library is very child-friendly, making it suitable for young ones. Additionally, there are dedicated sections for high school students, computer rooms, and a braille unit for the visually impaired. There is also a wide range of Chinese language and culture learning resources.
The selection of books is diverse, covering topics from avionics, law, medicine, history, public administration, anthropology, cooking, and finance, to fictional novels. Moreover, there is a beautiful open-air section with a vibrant art studio where you can purchase cute stickers.
The staff is very helpful. They explain some of the procedures and give a helpful overview of the library’s services, including the online library and digitization of books. They are very passionate about their library and their jobs, and they are very welcoming.
Kenya National Library Fees
A system has been implemented for entering, stowing bags, paying, and proceeding. Below are the applicable fees for various services.
Daily Library Access
Executive | Ksh 100 | |
Adults | Ksh 20 | |
Secondary School Students | Ksh 20 | |
Junior Readers | Free / No Charge |
NOTE: For kids, their school can fill out a card to get free membership and entry. They only pay Ksh 5 when borrowing a book. Parents should take advantage of this offer.
Book Loan
Adults & Secondary School Students | Ksh 20 per book | 14 days |
Junior Members | Ksh 5 per book | 14 days |
Institutional Annual Subscription
Primary School and Secondary Schools | Ksh 3,000 | |
Colleges | Ksh 7,500 | |
Community/Religious Institutions | Ksh 1,000 | |
Universities and NGO’s | Ksh 10,000 |
NOTE: There is a lifetime membership fee of Ksh 2,000 for adults and then you are free to borrow 2 books for KES 20 for two weeks.
Kenya National Library Opening Hours
Opens at 8 am and closes at 6:30 pm every weekday. Opens at 8:30 am and closes at 5 pm every Saturday.
- The washrooms are clean, but please remember to bring your own tissue and hand sanitiser.
- There are also ample parking spaces available.