The Kericho County Government has announced a major plan to modernize the Kericho Kenya National Library Service (KNLS), allocating Sh10 million in the current financial year to improve learning resources and create a more inclusive reading environment for residents. According to the County Chief Officer for Education, Library, Culture and Social Services, Richard Tonui, the upgrade marks the first significant investment since library services were devolved earlier in the year. Half of the funds will go toward renovating the aging structure, while the other Sh5 million will be used to purchase new books, update outdated materials, and strengthen digital learning options available to both students and adults.
Speaking during an inspection of the facility, Tonui noted that the library — built in the early 1980s — has long required upgrades to meet modern accessibility standards. The planned works include installing ramps and wider pathways for persons with disabilities, introducing Braille books and assistive technology for visually impaired learners, and improving the general reading environment. His remarks followed concerns raised by long-time library user Andrew Kiprono Chepkwony, a visually impaired resident who described the frustrations faced by people with disabilities, including difficulty locating materials and the lack of updated Braille books. Tonui emphasized that the county hopes to restore confidence in public libraries by encouraging children to cultivate a reading culture instead of over-relying on mobile phones and social media.
The library’s planned transformation has been widely welcomed by Kericho residents, especially educators and disability rights advocates who believe the upgrades will expand learning opportunities and bridge the digital divide. Local leaders say the project will align Kericho with national efforts to promote literacy, digital access, and lifelong learning. Looking ahead, the county also plans to explore partnerships with organizations such as the Kenya Society for the Blind and other ICT-focused groups to introduce more digital tools for learners with special needs. Once complete, the revamped library is expected to become a key educational hub in the South Rift, offering a conducive environment for research, revision, and community learning for generations to come.