Public Libraries in Kenya: National and County Facilities
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Public-library services in Kenya are provided through national and county arrangements. Do not treat the former KNLS branch list as a current census of all public libraries, or assume a county without an entry has no library.
KNLS says it established 61 public libraries in 33 counties before public-library functions were devolved. Its current eCitizen page identifies Maktaba Kuu headquarters and branches at Buruburu and Nakuru.
KNLS facilities
| Facility | Location |
|---|---|
| Maktaba Kuu | Nairobi |
| Buruburu Library | Nairobi |
| Nakuru Library | Nakuru |
Selected county libraries documented by Parliament
Parliament’s September 2025 report records visits to these facilities. This confirms their identity and county setting, not today’s opening hours.
| Library | County | Access note |
|---|---|---|
| Lagam Library | Elgeyo Marakwet | Check current hours and available services |
| Kakamega Library | Kakamega | Check current hours and available services |
| Kisumu Library | Kisumu | Check current hours and available services |
| Dr Robert Ouko Community Memorial Library, Koru | Kisumu | Check current hours and available services |
| Eldoret Branch Library | Uasin Gishu | Parliament reported 2024 fire damage and rebuilding plans; confirm access before visiting |
Finding a library near you
Ask your county government’s library or culture department about current facilities. For KNLS facilities and digital services, use KNLS’s official website or eCitizen page. Confirm membership, borrowing conditions, accessibility and opening hours with the relevant operator.
Tip: A national-library service, a county library and a university library may have different public-access rules. Confirm which service you need before travelling.