A Divided History: A Library in Kenya, Not for Kenyans
The racial history of McMillan Memorial Library from 1931 to 1958.
McMillan Memorial Library is on the intersection of Banda and Wabera streets in Nairobi, Kenya (2020-05-24) by Book BunkBook Bunk
McMillan Memorial Library
Located in Nairobi's central business district and built by Lady Lucy McMillan as a memorial to her husband, Sir William Northrup McMillan, the foundation of McMillan Memorial Library was laid in 1929.
Interior of the ground level at McMillan Memorial Library showing people sat around a long table with an animal sculpture on top. An elephant tusk is also visible close to the library's fireplace by Book BunkBook Bunk
Checkered Past
McMillan Memorial Library was opened in 1931. At the time, the country was under British colonial rule, and the space was reserved for the exclusive use of white people.
Official documents on the lifting of racial restrictions at McMillan Memorial Library (2022) by Book BunkBook Bunk
Lifting of Racial Restrictions
The racial restrictions governing the McMillan Memorial Library were lifted in 1958 during the lead-up to Kenya's independence.
McMillan Memorial Library
Black Africans making use of the library after the racial restrictions governing its use were lifted.
McMillan Memorial Library
A McMillan Memorial Library user going through the library's catalogue cards.
McMillan Memorial Library
Shelving books at McMillan Memorial Library.
McMillan Memorial Library
Users from different racial backgrounds using one of the McMillan Memorial Library's reference rooms.
McMillan Memorial Library (1971-05) by Book BunkBook Bunk
In the 70s
The library was at the heart of the emerging academic class in Kenya in the 1970s.
More recent picture of McMillan Memorial Library users by Book BunkBook Bunk
An Oasis in the Middle of Nairobi
Today, multitudes throb the library for the quiet space it provides and the resources within.
