Best Bookstores & Libraries in Nairobi, Kenya
1. Book Bunk Cafe
A cozy bookstore and cafe offering a wide selection of books and delicious food, perfect for reading or studying.
- Unique Selection: Offers a diverse range of local and international titles
- Cafe Amenities: Provides a comfortable space with tasty food and drinks
- Work and Study Space: Equipped with Wi-Fi and power outlets for work or study
2. The GoDown Mini-Mall
A bustling mall housing several bookstores under one roof, providing a vast array of books and unique shopping experiences.
- Variety of Bookstores: Offers multiple independent bookstores in one location
- Mall Atmosphere: Provides a lively and vibrant shopping environment
- Additional Services: Includes other services like cafes, art galleries, and gift shops
3. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Library
A modern library located within the JKIA terminal, providing travelers with access to books and reading materials during their layovers.
- Convenient Location: Located within an airport for easy access during travels
- Travel-friendly: Offers a wide variety of travel-related books and magazines
- 24/7 Access: Operates 24 hours a day, catering to travelers at any time
4. Nairobi National Library
A public library offering a vast collection of books, digital resources, and educational programs for the community.
- Community Resource: Serves as a valuable resource for the local Nairobi community
- Digital Resources: Offers access to e-books, online databases, and digital resources
- Educational Programs: Provides workshops, seminars, and other educational opportunities
5. Blank Bookshop
A quaint bookstore specializing in African literature, art, and culture, offering a unique perspective on the continent.
- Focus on African Content: Specializes in books about Africa and by African authors
- Art and Culture Gallery: Features a gallery showcasing local artists and their work
- Cultural Events: Hosts cultural events, book readings, and author signings
6. African Heritage Library
An extensive library dedicated to the preservation and promotion of African history, culture, and knowledge.
- African Knowledge Archive: Houses an impressive collection of African books, archives, and artifacts
- Research Facility: Serves as a valuable resource for researchers studying Africa
- Community Education: Offers educational programs about African history and culture
7. Kamome Bookshop
A popular bookstore offering a wide selection of books in English, Swahili, and French, with a focus on literature, fiction, and academic texts.
- Multilingual Selection: Offers books in multiple languages including English, Swahili, and French
- Academic Resources: Stocks a variety of academic texts, making it popular among students
- Central Location: Located in the city center for easy accessibility
8. The Boma Bookshop
A bookstore located within The Boma Hotel, offering a selection of books on Africa, its history, and culture.
- Hotel Location: Found within The Boma Hotel for convenience
- African-centric Selection: Focuses on African literature, history, and culture
- Gift Shop: Includes a gift shop selling souvenirs and handicrafts
9. Purple House Bookstore
An independent bookstore offering a unique selection of books, zines, and other reading materials, with a focus on social justice and activism.
- Independent Bookstore: Supports independent publishing and diverse voices
- Social Justice Focus: Promotes activism, social justice, and empowerment through its selection of books
- Community Engagement: Hosts events, workshops, and discussions about social issues
10. Koroga Library
A mobile library that brings books to various locations around Nairobi, making reading accessible for everyone.
- Mobile Accessibility: Travels to different neighborhoods within Nairobi
- Community Outreach: Reaches underprivileged communities and provides books for free
- Reading Initiatives: Promotes literacy through reading initiatives and workshops
11. Rahab's Girls' Shelter Library
A library located within a shelter for women survivors of sexual exploitation, offering resources and education to help them rebuild their lives.
- Shelter Support: Serves as a resource for women recovering from sexual exploitation
- Educational Resources: Offers books, educational materials, and training programs
- Empowerment Initiatives: Provides empowerment workshops and career development resources
12. Kibera Public Library
A community library serving the residents of Kibera, one of Africa's largest slums, providing books and educational resources to improve literacy rates.
- Community Empowerment: Supports the education and empowerment of Kibera residents
- Literacy Promotion: Promotes literacy through books, workshops, and training programs
- Community Development: Collaborates with local organizations for community development projects
13. Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Headquarters
The main library of Kenya, offering a vast collection of books, research facilities, and educational programs for the public.
- National Resource: Serves as the primary library for Kenya's national collection
- Research Facility: Offers research facilities and resources for academic and professional pursuits
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs, workshops, and seminars for the public
14. Tafaria Library
A modern library located in Tafaria, offering books, digital resources, and educational programs for residents.
- Modern Facility: Features a modern design and up-to-date technology
- Digital Resources: Provides access to e-books, online databases, and digital resources
- Community Engagement: Offers educational programs, workshops, and community events
15. Nairobi Public Library (NPL)
A public library located in the heart of Nairobi, offering books, digital resources, and educational programs for all ages.
- Central Location: Located in the city center for easy accessibility
- Digital Resources: Offers access to e-books, online databases, and digital resources
- Educational Programs: Provides workshops, seminars, and other educational opportunities for all ages