Aga Khan University feted at Maktaba Awards

Aga Khan University emerged second in the academic libraries category of the eighth Library of the Year Award (Maktaba Award).  This is organized and sponsored by the Kenya Library Association, the Goethe-Institute, the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation and the Ministry of Sports, Culture and the Arts.

The University was presented with 35,000 shillings worth of books and cash from Jomo Kenyatta Foundation, 200 books from Book Aid International, a trophy and a certificate.

The judges stated that the management aggressively markets the library services and activities to ensure the facility is seen as central in the overall goals of the Aga Khan University.  The facility uses modern technologies to serve its customers and its environment is welcoming, well-lit and spacious.  In addition it   has sufficient carrels and leisure reading spaces and dedicated areas where individuals can hold discussions, or study privately.

In his report to the Aga Khan University, the assessment judge Professor Constantine Nyamboga commented, “This is to inform you that your library is unique and a rare facility in the country. Besides, its collections both electronic and print, the development and establishment of the digital media makes it an information centre with a difference”

Peter Gatiti, Regional Librarian, Aga Khan University East Africa, said, “This win would not have been possible without the collective efforts from all of our library staff. They worked tirelessly to compile an award winning profile and took the judges through our range of services which impressed the panel. This win has confirmed the fact that the quality of library services is more important than the physical size. We are committed to providing an even better service!

The Kenyan Library of the Year Awards (Maktaba Awards) was established in 2010 and it is the largest single gathering which brings together all librarians and information professionals in Kenya to celebrate excellence. This national award recognizes quality in the provision of library and information services in the country.  It supports and rewards creativity, innovation and provision of reliable service in Kenyan libraries.