Our Library Starter
Start Your Library Today
Our Library Starter scheme helps schools, libraries, orphanages, and community organisations across Kenya access affordable books. For a flat fee of 5,000 KSh, each organisation receives four boxes of books, with approximately 250 books per box — a perfect way to begin or expand your library.
Any public-benefit organisation can apply, and applications are accepted throughout the year. Since launching the scheme, we have already delivered over 50,000 books to schools and community organisations, helping children gain access to the books they need to read, learn, and grow. Apply today to start building your library and join our growing community of readers.
Download our application form and apply for your books today to start your own library.
Below is an overview of the application process and book delivery, presented in a simple FAQ format to help your organisation apply with ease.
Library Starter FAQ
Who can apply for Library Starter?
Any public-benefit organisation can apply for Library Starter. This includes schools, libraries, orphanages, and community groups that work to support children and communities across Kenya. If your organisation aims to make a positive impact through reading and learning, Library Starter can help you access affordable books to begin or expand your library and provide children with the resources they need to read, learn, and grow.
How much does it cost?
The Library Starter scheme is available for a one-off flat fee of 5,000 KSh, which covers the delivery of four boxes of books (approximately 250 books in total) to the nearest large bus depot. This small investment allows your organisation to access affordable books for your library, giving children in your community the chance to read, learn, and grow.
How do I make the payment?
To secure your Library Starter books, please make a one-off payment of 5,000 KSh via M-Pesa to Juma Mwakina Anthony (0795 709757). Once payment is confirmed, we will arrange delivery so your organisation can start building its library for children and communities across Kenya.
Can I receive the books before I send the payment?
No. We will only dispatch books once the full payment of 5,000 KSh has been received. This ensures we can continue providing books to schools and organisations across Kenya. Once your payment is confirmed, we will arrange delivery so your organisation can start building its library and helping children access books and learning opportunities.
How will the books be delivered?
Your four boxes of books will be sent from Ukunda, by the most appropriate bus company to the nearest large bus stop to your organisation. We will use the contact information you provide in the application form and let you know once the books are on their way. You will need to pick them up from there. This ensures a smooth delivery so your organisation can start building its library and helping children access the books they need to read, learn, and grow.
What type of books will I receive?
You will receive a variety of children’s story books suitable for beginner, intermediate, and advanced readers. If you choose, your organisation can also receive children’s knowledge books to support learning across different subjects. While we cannot specify exact titles or authors, every selection is carefully chosen to inspire reading, learning, and curiosity in children and help build a vibrant library.
Can I apply for more than four boxes?
Yes. Your organisation can apply for up to eight boxes of books in a single year. This allows you to expand your library even further and give more children the chance to read, learn, and grow.
Can I apply for books for adults too?
Yes. If your organisation would like books for adults, please contact us directly, and we will provide a separate application form. This allows you to expand your library and provide reading resources for both children and adults in your community.
When will the books be delivered?
If books are already in Kenya at the time of your application, your organisation will receive them within a few weeks after payment. If we need to bring the books to Kenya first, delivery may take 6–8 months, but we will keep you informed every step of the way. This ensures your library receives the books it needs to help children read, learn, and grow.
Can I choose my own form of delivery?
Yes. You can select a delivery service of your choice to receive your boxes. Please note that your organisation will need to arrange and pay for this service directly, in addition to the standard 5,000 KSh fee to JBAC. Choosing your own delivery can give your organisation flexibility while still allowing you to access books for your library and provide children with the resources they need to read, learn, and grow.