By Fredrick Adika

On June 2-5, the university celebrated Library week themed, “Connecting Communities Through Knowledge”. The event brought together students, faculty, alumni, and special guests to reflect on the evolving role of libraries as bridges between people, ideas, and generations.

Featuring a series of activities, this week-long event kicked off with an opening ceremony led by Dr. Azenath Ateka, who highlighted the critical role of the library in closing community gaps. She pointed out that libraries provide inclusive spaces that bring people together, heighten curiosity, and offer equal access to knowledge.

Giving his keynote address, Dr. Fred Otike, University Librarian at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, noted that libraries provide a bridge between the past and the future, people and ideas, disciplines and generations, and the rich and the poor. Noting that libraries do more than store books, he stated that they fulfill humans’ natural desire to learn and explore. Drawing on the "Theory of Places," he talked about the idea of the library as a “third place”; a space outside of home and work where people feel welcome, connect with others, and keep learning throughout their lives." Dr. Otike emphasized that every library visit is not just an act of reading; it’s an act of belonging and a moment of inclusion and collective growth.

Following his remarks, Dr. Agava Stanislaus, University Librarian at the National Intelligence and Research University, shared insights on how libraries serve as equalizers in society stating that they are the heartbeat of communities and spaces where knowledge is free, opportunities are equal, and transformation is possible. He argued that libraries are a source of empowerment as they provide access to information, nurture literacy and preserve various cultures and heritage. Furthermore, Dr. Agava highlighted global initiatives that embody this mission, including Kenya’s Kipepeo Safe Space, a nonprofit library and learning hub for underprivileged children in Kware, Ongata Rongai. Through such examples, he outlined how libraries are more than repositories; they are lifelines that spark hope, ignite change, and connect communities.

The occasion also featured the launch of a book titled The Handbook of International Psychology, authored by alumni retired Major Lucy Wairimu Mukuria, Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Class of 2004 and Mary Kittakah, Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, Class of 2014, alongside Dr. Margaret Njoroge. Major Mukuria captivated the audience with her story of transitioning from a military career to psychological research and publishing. She shared a messaged of purpose resilience and impact.

As the week progressed, the celebrations extended beyond the campus as the library team and student ambassadors took part in a community outreach initiative by visiting three schools namely Mountain View School, Thika Road Christian School, and Ruaraka Academy. They offered training sessions centered on smart information use, reading for success, study and research skills, digital literacy, and planning for the future through knowledge. These engaging interactions allowed students to analyze the value of libraries in their own academic journeys and explore how they too could become knowledge ambassadors in their communities.

Filled with inspiration, storytelling, learning, and meaningful connection, this year’s Library Week was a true testament to the power of libraries in shaping inclusive, informed, and empowered societies. This event is a testament of one of the university’s core values which aims at developing a learning culture that continues throughout a person’s lifetime. It is a promise that knowledge will always be accessible, inclusive, and transformative.