University Library Hosts E-Library USA Training

 BY ERIC SINDABI

The University Library department held a training session on January 17, 2025, to introduce staff and students to the e.Library USA, an online resource initiative facilitated by the United States of America Embassy in Kenya. The event, which combined both in-person and virtual participation, targeted undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as library staff, with a total of sixty participants in attendance.

The American Spaces programme, a U.S. foreign policy initiative aims at promoting education and recreation through a range of free online resources and services to enhance academic and personal development. Participants were guided on how to register and access a wide array of materials, including academic resources such as journal articles, theses, e-books, media materials like U.S.-based magazines, newspapers, and films, as well as other informational content.

Beyond providing digital learning tools, the American Spaces programme offers additional services that extend its educational and cultural scope. These include information and guidance on studying in the United States, cultural and historical insights about the U.S., and opportunities for exchange programmes. The initiative also supports civic education on democracy, skills-building workshops, alumni engagement, and fellowship opportunities in the U.S.

“This training is part of the library’s commitment to equipping students and staff with the tools they need to access and utilize global knowledge,” said Mr.Rotich during the session.

Mr. Asutsa expressed enthusiasm of the programme’s potential of empowerment and benefits   especially its focus on free access to quality resources and educational opportunities stressing that the programme aims to bridge the gap between local academic needs and global knowledge systems. Mr.Kazungu on the other hand, noted that the collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and the Kenya National Library Services underscores the value of fostering international partnerships to enhance education and cultural ideals in Kenya.