NAIROBI, Kenya – King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom visited the Eastlands Library in Nairobi, Kenya, on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. The library, which was originally opened in 1969, was renovated by Book Bunk in 2021 and now serves as an art and cultural hub in addition to offering library services.
The King and Queen were greeted by Book Bunk founders Angela Wachuka and Wanjiru Koinange, who conducted tours of the facility. The visit was a testament to the British Monarchs’ appreciation for Book Bunk’s work restoring public libraries and turning them into inclusive and accessible “Palaces for the People” that are enhancing literacy skills.
Participants in art programmes offered by Book Bunk, including Music Bunk and Dance Bunk, showcased their learned skills during the visit. The library also boasts a children’s reading area known as Chekechea, where Her Majesty the Queen joined a reading session.
Meanwhile, the King engaged with beneficiaries of Princes Trust International, a charity founded by King Charles in 2015 to tackle youth unemployment. The Trust provides young people with the skills and resources they need to build their own futures and contribute to their communities.
Eastlands Library houses art and culture commissioned by artists resident in the neighbourhood, including murals of musicians and sports figures such as King Kaka, Fena, Teardrops the poet, Savara from Sauti Sol, and Mbogi Genje. The Library serves a diverse demographic, including children, youth, and adults, offering enriching experiences through various programming initiatives.
