Library Ecosystem Research

In 2020, we launched the Library Ecosystems Research project to understand the broader network of public libraries in Kenya. We wanted to know not just how many people visit or how many books circulate, but: What makes a library ecosystem thrive? What roles do users, librarians, policymakers, and partners play? And how can libraries stay relevant, resilient, and rooted?

Five years later, at Nairobi Litfest 2025, we shared these findings, and now we’re excited to share them with you!

Engage with the Research

Read the Report

We visited every public and community library in Kenya, spoke with librarians and users, and gathered stories that reflect the diversity of library life. Download the draft report now and let us know what you think. The final version will be published later this year.

Find a Library

We have created a digital platform mapping the libraries that is both a research archive and an interactive tool. Browse Kenya’s libraries, and contribute updates.

See the Map in Person

A giant version of the Kenya Libraries Map is installed at Eastlands Library, Nyasa Road, Nairobi. Drop by to check it out, or book a guided tour of all three libraries.