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National Library of Uganda

4.1
·57 reviews·Kampala, Uganda

Discover Uganda's rich history and culture at the National Library, a quiet haven for study with affordable access and valuable archives.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Quieter atmosphere for study

CrowdLow
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National Library of Uganda - Image 1

National Library of Uganda

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Quieter atmosphere for study

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Uganda's rich history and culture at the National Library, a quiet haven for study with affordable access and valuable archives.

4.1
(57 reviews)

"A quiet place, good for work, with a rich collection on Uganda that dates back to pre-independence."

Vertical photo
TIP

📚 Membership Tiers

Affordable daily, monthly, and annual memberships available. Daily starts at just 2,000 shillings! :moneybag:

💻 Free WiFi & Computers

Utilize the provided computers and enjoy complimentary WiFi for your work or research needs. :computer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pre-Independence Archives

Pre-Independence Archives

Reading Area

Explore a unique collection of Ugandan history, with valuable resources dating back to before the country's independence.

Conducive Reading Environment

Conducive Reading Environment

Study/Reading Area

Find a peaceful and quiet space perfect for focused work, study, or simply enjoying a good book.

Book Aid International Shipments

Book Aid International Shipments

Main Hall

Witness the arrival of new book donations, a testament to the library's commitment to expanding its collection.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Uganda's Literary Heart

The National Library of Uganda offers a quiet sanctuary for study and research. While membership is affordable, be aware that books are for in-library use only. Plan your visit to coincide with their programs, as they often receive new book shipments.

A Glimpse into Ugandan History

Discover a rich collection focusing on Uganda's past, with materials dating back to pre-independence. This is a fantastic spot for anyone interested in Ugandan heritage and literature, offering a unique perspective on the nation's story.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere for study
Crowd
Low
When
During Book Donation Events
Why
See new arrivals
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Great vibes of training of trainers workshop, run by EIFL partners in Uganda: the national library of Uganda and @maendeleo_2018 . This workshop is a part of the digital skills project, funded by Enabel. 💪🌟❤️
ugnelip
11 likes • 172 views

📚 Membership Tiers

Affordable daily, monthly, and annual memberships available. Daily starts at just 2,000 shillings! :moneybag:

💻 Free WiFi & Computers

Utilize the provided computers and enjoy complimentary WiFi for your work or research needs. :computer:

We are excited to announce that a shipment carrying 48,513 books from Book Aid International just arrived at the National Library of Uganda.
nationallib_ug
25 likes • 787 views
reddit.com

Travelling to Uganda for 9 days in march - what to see?

📖 In-Library Use Only

Books cannot be borrowed out; all reading and research must be done on-site. :books:

🏛️ Historic Exterior

Appreciate the building's historic architecture from the outside before diving into its literary treasures. :building_construction:

reddit.com

Tourist attractions in UG?

Tips

from all over the internet

📚 Membership Tiers

Affordable daily, monthly, and annual memberships available. Daily starts at just 2,000 shillings! :moneybag:

💻 Free WiFi & Computers

Utilize the provided computers and enjoy complimentary WiFi for your work or research needs. :computer:

📖 In-Library Use Only

Books cannot be borrowed out; all reading and research must be done on-site. :books:

🏛️ Historic Exterior

Appreciate the building's historic architecture from the outside before diving into its literary treasures. :building_construction:

🎁 Book Donation Programs

The library participates in yearly programs with Book Aid International, receiving free books. :gift:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(57 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the National Library of Uganda for its quiet, conducive reading environment and its valuable collection of Ugandan history, including pre-independence materials. The affordable membership, free WiFi, and helpful staff are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, making it a great spot for study and research.

"Nice place, with a conducive reading environment.

They also have a rich collection on Uganda, that dates back to pre-independence."

Carol Nankinga

"Very welcoming. The receptionist was very helpful, and as an author, the moment of submitting my book, the novel, ROCK 'N' DRAW to the National Library of Uganda was such a very touching experience! Thanks so much NLU 🙏🤭🇺🇬✨✨ For God and My Country!"

Joseph Lutalo Willrich

"A quiet place, good for work"

Daniel Opio

What People Like

Quiet reading environment
Rich Ugandan history collection
Affordable membership

What People Dislike

Books are for in-library use only

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Library of Uganda is centrally located in Kampala. You can reach it via taxi or public transport (matatu). It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know its location. Reddit

Limited parking may be available on-site, but it's advisable to confirm upon arrival or consider public transport due to potential congestion in the city center. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, but typically the library is open during weekdays and sometimes on Saturdays. It's best to check their official schedule or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, the library provides a conducive reading environment with tables and chairs suitable for using laptops. Free WiFi is also available. Reddit

The library is located in Kampala's city center, close to various government buildings, markets, and other cultural sites, making it a good starting point for exploring the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a membership fee to use the library's facilities. Daily, monthly, and annual memberships are available, with daily access being very affordable. Reddit

Membership fees are quite reasonable. A day pass starts at approximately 2,000 Ugandan Shillings, with longer-term memberships being even more cost-effective. Reddit

No, books from the National Library of Uganda are for in-library use only and cannot be borrowed out. You must read them within the library premises. Reddit

The library hosts various programs, including workshops and book donation events with partners like Book Aid International. Keep an eye out for announcements. TikTokInstagram

While generally encouraged for personal use, it's always best to check with the staff on-site regarding specific photography policies, especially for professional or commercial purposes. Reddit

🎫 📚 Onsite Experience

The library has a rich collection, particularly strong in materials about Uganda's history, including pre-independence archives. They also receive new books through donations. InstagramReddit

Absolutely. Reviewers consistently mention it as a quiet and conducive environment, ideal for focused work, reading, or research. Reddit

Yes, the library offers computers for public use and provides free WiFi, making it a convenient spot for digital research and work. Reddit

The atmosphere is generally described as welcoming and peaceful. The reading areas are well-managed, though can be a bit crammed with shelves and tables. Reddit

Yes, the staff are noted for being welcoming and helpful, with one reviewer mentioning a particularly touching experience submitting their book. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, libraries have policies against food and drinks in reading areas to preserve the books and environment. It's best to consume these outside the library. Reddit

Being in Kampala's city center, you'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors within walking distance, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is usually permitted, but it's always wise to confirm with the library staff to ensure you're following their guidelines. Reddit

The historic exterior of the building offers a striking visual. Inside, the shelves filled with books and the reading areas can also make for interesting shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the National Library of Uganda is primarily a quiet study space, it can be a good option for families with older children interested in reading or research. The affordable membership makes it accessible, and the availability of computers and WiFi could be useful for educational purposes. Reddit

It's important to manage expectations: this is not a children's library with dedicated play areas. However, the opportunity to explore books on Ugandan history could be a unique learning experience. Ensure children understand and respect the quiet environment required for other patrons. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The National Library of Uganda is an absolute gem for budget travelers. The extremely low membership fees, starting at just 2,000 shillings for a day pass, offer incredible value. You get access to a quiet reading environment, free WiFi, and computers, all for the price of a small snack. Reddit

This is a perfect spot to escape the heat, catch up on work, or simply relax with a book without spending much. The rich collection on Ugandan history also provides an affordable way to learn about the country's past. Reddit

📚 Students & Researchers

For students and researchers, the National Library of Uganda is an invaluable resource. The extensive collection of Ugandan history, including pre-independence materials, is particularly noteworthy. The quiet, conducive study environment, coupled with free WiFi and computer access, makes it an ideal place for focused academic work. Reddit

While books cannot be borrowed, the ability to spend extended periods on-site with affordable membership makes it a practical choice for in-depth research. The helpful staff can also be a great resource for navigating the library's collections. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Uganda's Literary Heritage

The National Library of Uganda is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the nation's history and culture. Its collection boasts a significant number of resources, including invaluable materials that date back to the pre-independence era. This makes it a crucial spot for researchers, students, and history enthusiasts looking to delve deep into Uganda's past. The library actively works to expand its collection, notably through yearly programs with Book Aid International, which ensures a steady influx of new books. InstagramReddit

Beyond its historical archives, the library provides a conducive reading environment. Visitors often praise its quiet atmosphere, making it ideal for focused study or leisurely reading. The reading and study areas are equipped with tables and chairs, and importantly, the library offers free WiFi and access to computers for patrons. This blend of historical depth and modern amenities makes the National Library of Uganda a unique and valuable institution. Reddit

While the primary function is research and study, the library also serves as a community hub. It hosts various workshops and training sessions, demonstrating its role in promoting literacy and digital skills within Uganda. TikTok The welcoming nature of the staff further enhances the visitor experience, making it a place where one can feel both informed and supported in their pursuit of knowledge.

Practicalities for Your Visit

Visiting the National Library of Uganda is straightforward, with a focus on accessibility and affordability. A key aspect for visitors to note is the membership system. While entry is not free, the membership fees are remarkably low, with daily passes starting at just 2,000 Ugandan Shillings. This makes it an incredibly budget-friendly option for accessing a wealth of information. Longer-term memberships are also available and offer even greater savings. Reddit

It's important to understand that the library operates on an in-library use policy for its collection. This means that while you can access and read any book on the premises, you cannot borrow them to take home. This policy helps preserve the collection for all users. The reading areas are designed to accommodate this, with ample seating and workspace. Reddit

For those who need to stay connected, the library offers complimentary WiFi access and public computers. This is a significant advantage for students or professionals who need to conduct online research or work remotely. The staff are generally helpful and welcoming, contributing to a positive and productive visit. Reddit

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