Kampala University Takes Library Services Closer to Schools and Communities Through Book Week
Kampala University held its Library Book Week at the Main Campus in Ggaba from 26 to 27 October 2026, bringing library services closer to learners and the surrounding community while promoting reading, research and lifelong learning.
Held at the University Graduation Square under the theme “Transforming Learning and Research through Innovative Library Services,” the initiative extended beyond Ggaba, with similar activities subsequently conducted at the University’s Luweero, Masaka, Jinja and Mutundwe campuses.https://ku.ac.ug/uploads/media/images/news/99306b1e1c865715.webp
The exercise was headed by the Chief Librarian, Ms. Namuswe Eseri, and sought to strengthen connections between the University Library, neighbouring schools and community members. Schools and members of the surrounding communities were invited to explore how library resources and services can support learning, creativity and access to knowledge.
At the heart of the initiative was the desire to make the library more accessible and encourage people to see it as a valuable resource throughout their educational and professional lives. For school learners, the programme offered an introduction to a university learning environment and an opportunity to interact with university students and staff.
The Book Week programme brought together activities designed to connect reading with practical learning. These included guided library tours, exhibitions of books and new library resources, introductions to library technologies and services, and opportunities for interaction with publishers and authors.
Information literacy and digital research skills sessions formed an important part of the programme, focusing attention on how learners can find, assess and use information effectively. These skills are increasingly valuable as students navigate both printed materials and digital sources in their studies.
Other programme activities included a literary treasure hunt for secondary school and first-year University students, recognition of outstanding library users and visiting secondary school students, and career and academic guidance discussions with University staff and students.
The subsequent activities at Luweero, Masaka, Jinja and Mutundwe extended the initiative’s reach, giving more learners and neighbouring communities an opportunity to engage with library services closer to them.
By taking library services beyond their usual users, the University demonstrated how access to knowledge can connect campuses with the communities they serve.
By Public Relations Office