Overview
- Act: Kenya National Library Service Act, Cap. 225
- Formed: 1965
- CEO: Dr. Charles Nzivo
- X (Twitter)
The Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) was established in 1965 under the Kenya National Library Service Act. Its mandate includes providing library services to all Kenyans, enhancing literacy, and promoting access to information. KNLS supports educational development, research, and lifelong learning through a network of libraries, digital resources, and community programs, aiming to foster personal growth and cultural enrichment across the country.
CEO: Dr. Charles Nzivo
Dr. Charles Nzivo is the Director General/ Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS). He holds a PhD in Library and Information Science from Moi University and has extensive experience in the management of library services, information systems, and strategic planning. Dr. Nzivo has contributed to the development of information technology solutions within the public sector, emphasizing digital literacy and knowledge management to enhance accessibility.
Management Team
Dr. Charles Nzivo
Chief Executive Officer
Philomena Mwirigi
Director – Acquisition and Distribution Directorate
Julie Musandu
Director – Finance, Resource Mobilization and Planning Directorate
Betty Kalugho
Deputy Director – Cataloguing, Classification and Distribution
Albert Nyabuto Nyauntu
Deputy Director – Human Resource Management and Development
Nancy Ngugi
Deputy Director – Corporate Communications
Wanjiku Mwangi
Deputy Director – Internal Audit and Risk Assurance
Alex Ombongi
Deputy Director – Information Communication Technology
Juliana Muchai
Deputy Director – Resource Mobilization
Cyrus Ndogo
Deputy Director – Planning and Strategy
Janet Rotich
Deputy Director – Supply Chain Management
Board of Governors
Bishop Robert Theuri Maina
Board Chairman
Dr Charles Ngui Nzivo
CEO and Secretary to the Board
Dr. Silvia K. Vundi
Ministry of Devolution
Angela Mumo
University of Nairobi
Joel Kipsang Bett
National Treasury
Peter Ochieng
Ministry of Labor and Social Protection
Dr. Naftali Chweya
Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage
Dorcas A. Obwambaki
Independent Board Member
Mohammed Abdi Werar
Independent Board Member
Issack Suleiman
Independent Board Member
Functions
- Providing Library Services: Operates a network of libraries across Kenya, offering access to books, digital resources, and information materials.
- Promoting Literacy: Supports national literacy efforts by offering programs that cater to children, youth, and adults.
- Supporting Education: Enhances educational development by providing textbooks, reference materials, and study resources.
- Research Facilitation: Provides research materials to universities, institutions, and individuals to support academic and professional growth.
- Digital Services: Promotes access to online resources and digital libraries for greater information dissemination.
- Fostering Lifelong Learning: Encourages personal development through library programs, workshops, and educational events.
- Cultural Preservation: Preserves cultural heritage by collecting and archiving local literature and historical documents.
- Public Awareness: Offers awareness campaigns on the importance of reading, literacy, and access to information.
- Inclusive Access: Ensures that library services reach all Kenyans, including marginalized groups.
- Collaboration with Other Institutions: Partners with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to enhance library services and community outreach.
Important Links
Address & Contacts
- Head Office, Maktaba Kuu Building, Ngong Road, Upperhill
- P.O. Box 30573 – 00100, Nairobi, Kenya
- knls@knls.ac.ke
- (+254)202739893| (+254)722 860 567