Kenya National Library Service

Read | Know | Empower

Who We Are

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 wide access to information resources and sources..

Become a member

Join the Kenya National Library Service and unlock a world of knowledge, information, and lifelong learning opportunities. As a member, you gain access to a wide range of resources including books, e-books, research materials, internet services, and engaging library programs tailored for all age groups. Membership is open to individuals, institutions, and organizations across Kenya.

Register today at your nearest knls branch or online, and start your journey towards informed, empowered living..

We take pride in

Digitization services

The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Digitization Lab is a ground-breaking initiative designed to preserve and share rare and valuable content while making it accessible to the public. This state-of-the-art facility offers cutting-edge digitization services for fragile materials like rare books, maps, and records, ensuring their longevity and accessibility for future generations..

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Access our Virtual Library

Welcome to Vtabu, the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Virtual Library—your gateway to a world of knowledge, innovation, and discovery. Designed to promote access to information, literacy, education, research, and innovation, Vtabu embodies inclusivity, collaboration, and impactful partnerships..

V.tabi

Data Centre

Unlock the future of digital excellence with the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Data Center. Our state-of-the-art facility combines advanced technology, tailored solutions, and expert support to meet the dynamic digital needs of libraries, businesses, learning institutions, and other organizations..

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Our Core Values

The following values act as a unifying and inspiring factor in our daily operations and service delivery to the public.

Technology driven

We will continually integrate technology in all our operations and service delivery

Innovatiion

We will embrace new ways, ideas and products to satisfy our customer needs

Customer Focus

We will serve our customers with passion, integrity and professionalism

Read | know |empower

"I love how quiet and peaceful the library is. It’s the perfect place to study or just read. The digital resources are fantastic, and I always find the latest books and journals."

"The National Library offers an incredible range of services. The workshops and events they host are so informative, and I’ve learned so much from the experts they bring in. Definitely a place to keep coming back to!"

The resources at the National Library are unmatched! I’ve found everything I needed for my research, and the staff is always so helpful. It's truly a gem for anyone looking to dive deep into knowledge

"The staff here is wonderful! They’re so knowledgeable and always ready to assist. The library’s collection is extensive, and I can always count on finding what I need. It’s the best place for both research and relaxation."

"Being a member of the National Library has been an amazing experience. The access to digital archives and online resources has made my studies so much easier. I highly recommend this library to anyone who loves to learn!"

Most Sought-After Services

at knls

ISBN Issuance

NEW

Our responsibility extends to assigning ISBNs to diverse monographic publications and related products, whether available for free or purchase. .

Knls Newsletter

Launch of a New Library in Gatimbi – Imenti Central Constituency - Meru County

Official opening of knls Gatimbi Community Library, Meru County 7th December 2017 – Empowerment of residents through the establishment of a well-stocked information and knowledge resource centre...

TU-K Presents Thesis Projects to the Kenya National Library Services

The Technical University of Kenya through the School of Graduate and Advanced Studies (SGAS) presented copies of Masters and PhD projects to the Kenya National Library Services (KNLS). This initiative marks the beginning of a partnership between the two institutions..

Book drive at Kenya National library service

On April 4th, 2023, the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) joined forces with Book Aid International, Spotlight Publishers, and RTI to donate 2550 books to the One Million Tana River Maktaba Drive. This partnership between KNLS and the 1 Million Maktaba Book Drive is a significant ..