About

Maria’s Libraries is committed to strengthening and promoting a library network in Kenya. We are currently engaged in 4 primary activities.  First, our main work involves building a modern, fully equipped library in Busia, Kenya.  Second, we network libraries, running innovative programs through a pilot network of five libraries located throughout Kenya.  Third, we bring together local level information needs and innovative practices from around the world to develop cutting edge information services through libraries.  Finally, we promote local philanthropy around libraries. We do research around all of our program areas to ensure an effective, sustainable and ethical approach to international development.

Maria’s Libraries strives to marry theory with practice, to incorporate key “big issues” from the international institutions and academia in how we structure our activities and the organization.

Maria’s Libraries chooses activity areas based on gaps in local or national capacity to sustain local library projects.  Our program areas have been defined by carefully assessing where we can add value.  Our programs are designed to build upon existing strengths at the local and national level and bring in new ideas and technologies from around the globe.

Throughout, we strive to represent a model of responsible development, troubleshooting as we go. This includes community responsibility in decision-making and project management, working to strengthen local and national government collaboration, and considering the ethical components of all of our activities.  All activities are demand-driven; we only work in areas where community members or partner organizations have requested our involvement.