Kenya National Library Service (KNLS)

About Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) is a government agency dedicated to promoting literacy, learning, and access to knowledge for all. Headquartered at the iconic Maktaba Kuu Building in Upper Hill, Nairobi, KNLS operates additional regional branches in Buruburu (Nairobi) and Nakuru, alongside a dynamic virtual library platform that ensures convenient public access to a vast range of digital information resources. What We Do: KNLS plays a pivotal role in: • Shaping the library sector through strategic policy development, legislation, and setting operational standards. • Strengthening library services across counties through capacity building and technical support. • Acquiring, preserving, and managing a comprehensive collection of local and international publications, supporting the creation of Kenya's national bibliography. • Driving innovation and research in library development and related services. • Advocating for literacy and a reading culture through public campaigns and programs aimed at eradicating illiteracy. • Administering international standard numbers for books, serials, and music to uphold publication standards. • Publishing key national resources, including the Kenya National Bibliography and the Kenya Periodical Directory. • Maintaining the National WebCat, a centralized catalog of library holdings across the country. • Offering reference and referral services to meet the diverse informational needs of individuals and organizations.