Kenya has taken a remarkable leap forward in the world of digital knowledge with the launch of its first-ever virtual library, Vtabu. Valued at $1.7 million, this initiative brings together a vast collection of over 200,000 digitized books, periodicals, research papers, and government publications.
Accessible and Versatile: A Gateway to Knowledge
Unveiled at the prestigious Maktaba Kuu premises in Nairobi by Ababu Namwamba, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Sports, and the Arts, Vtabu is a revolutionary virtual library that transcends geographical boundaries. It can be accessed from any internet-enabled device globally, making learning and exploration convenient and effortless. The library hosts downloadable e-books, ensuring that users can continue their reading journey even offline.
A Wealth of Resources for All
Vtabu offers a treasure trove of free resources, with a particular focus on enriching young minds. Children’s content and general information e-books, as well as academic journals, are available for free to members. For a small daily fee of Ksh20, individuals gain access to a wealth of knowledge. For those who wish to enjoy long-term access, the library provides various membership options. One can opt for weekly, monthly, bi-annual, or annual subscriptions, with fees ranging from Ksh100 to Ksh2500.
How to Access Vtabu
To access the virtual library, you’ll need to head over to their Vtabu website and create an account. Once you’re logged in, you’ll find couple of free books to read. However, there those that need you to have paid a membership fee.
Fostering Talent and Creativity
Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba highlighted the importance of Vtabu’s Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) materials, empowering young learners to discover their talents and nurture them for future career opportunities.
“We no longer have to worry about the age of these publications, and we no longer have to worry about the fact that we only have one copy surviving. We no longer have to worry about very precious maps because they are in this space where they are safe and available to access,” said CS Ababu Namwamba.
The Talanta Hela initiative, integrated into the virtual library, encourages youths to monetize their literary works, providing a platform to showcase their creativity and talents. To further promote knowledge sharing, the CS urged relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to collaborate with the Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) in educational institutions.
A Hub of Learning: Books for All Subjects and Interests
Vtabu caters to learners of all levels, from Pre-School to University. Its vast collection includes e-books covering every subject imaginable, both fiction and nonfiction. No matter the topic, students, researchers, and enthusiasts alike will find an abundance of resources to quench their thirst for knowledge.
Empowering the Community: Data Centre and Digitization Hub
During the launch, the CS introduced another game-changing initiative. A tier-two data centre is now available for lease, providing cloud storage services to state agencies and public institutions. Additionally, the library’s digitization hub allows Kenyans to preserve their valuable books, records, newspapers, and photographs digitally.
With the remarkable virtual library, Vtabu, Kenya is embracing the future of learning and knowledge-sharing. As the nation takes this significant stride, students, researchers, and readers of all ages can now access a vast digital realm of information, broadening horizons and transforming lives through the power of knowledge.
