The Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) has unveiled the country’s first virtual library with more than 200,000 digitised books, periodicals, research papers, and government publications.

The virtual library, accessible from any internet-enabled device globally, will also host downloadable e-books for offline reading.

Additionally, KNLS launched a digitalization hub where Kenyans can seek to upload their books, documents, newspapers, and images.

 As well as a Tier 2 data centre, state agencies and other public institutions can rent cloud storage facilities.

Ababu Namwamba, the cabinet secretary for sports, who oversaw the event at Maktaba Kuu, emphasised the value of technology and innovation in knowledge growth in boosting Kenya's economic growth, competitiveness, and job creation initiatives through online and content generation-related careers.

“The Virtual Library with its Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) materials will greatly support the young learners to easily identify their talents and work to nurture these skills as their future career opportunities, “he said.

Users will pay a daily membership fee of Kes 20 via wireless payment platforms.

One can also pay weekly at Kes 100, monthly at Kes 500, biannually at Kes 1,500, and an annual membership fee of Kes 2,500.