Hatua Network Libraries

Our fully automated library, which is Likoni’s first public library houses 6,000+ book collections, a study hall to accommodate 116 users and a computer lab with 18 computers.

The work to create a library began in 2006 when teachers convinced the Likoni Constituency Development Fund to construct a library building. The building was completed in 2009, but a year and a half after construction, it was not equipped.

At the inception stage of the Library, educators throughout our community agreed that the major cause of poor performance was the challenge students faced when trying to study at home. Most families in Likoni live in a single, overcrowded room. According to research conducted by Hatua Likoni, 27% of homes in Likoni lacked electricity which made studying in such conditions very difficult.

In October 2010, a community committee was created which represented nine Likoni schools, the District Office of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the National Youth Council and Hatua Likoni. Hatua held a Harambee (fundraiser) in February 2011 and over $2,000 was raised for constructing furniture.

The SDL Foundation donated $5,250 for furniture and to equip the Library’s computer lab, American Friends of Kenya donated over 6,000 books, KNLS also donated 400 books and the East Side Community High School in New York City donated books and book cataloging materials.

Thanks to our supporters, we were able to construct shelves, tables, and computer desks. We wired electrical outlets, installed fans, purchased 10 computers and installed library automation software. We would also like to thank the Kenya Education Fund for their donation of 10 CPUs, not forgetting a recent donation of 2 computers by Cynthia Oketch and Franklin Craig.

The computers are being used to teach basic computer skills to Primary School students in Likoni at no cost. Our library has a research desk to assist university students in doing their research free of charge. The library’s arcade is used by Hatua and other community organizations to host training sessions. Currently, Swahili box is using the library arcade to train to code to the youth in the community.

We are also taking an inclusive approach to the Library whereby we have set up a new braille section thanks to American Friends of Kenya for providing braille books. Apart from that, we have built ramps to enable the physically challenged access the library with ease.

The library is currently run by Mr. Evans Omondi, a trained professional in Library and Information Sciences. He is assisted by 4 Gap year students who work on a volunteer basis.

Our library is now a popular stop for students who need to concentrate on their studies and those who need to research and do not own a personal computer.