National Library Service
Promoting Reading Culture in Malawi
The National Library Service Board is a Statutory Corporation established under the National Library Service Act of 1967. NLS operates nation-wide public library and information services in Malawi. Its mission is to ensure that people of Malawi have access to educational, training, recreational and information materials for national development.
Its statutory responsibilities, as stipulated in the Act, are to promote, establish, equip, manage, maintain and develop libraries in Malawi. The Service is governed by a Board which is comprised of a chairman appointed by the Minister responsible for Statutory Corporations; representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology; the Ministry of Local Government and Rural development; The Malawi Police Service; Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning. There are also some members who are appointed in their personal capacities. The Board’s Chief Executive and Secretary is the National Librarian.
Vision
“A model centre of information and knowledge management”
Mission
“To provide access to library and information resources to the public through core service points and outreach centers for socio-economic development”
Message from the National Librarian
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A Reading Nation is a Leading Nation
“Dear Esteemed Member & Customer,
Welcome to the National Library: your gateway to knowledge, growth, and endless possibility. We believe that a reading nation is a leading nation, and it is this conviction that drives everything we do.
We have journeyed boldly from bricks to clicks; transforming our institution from a traditional library into a dynamic learning, collaborative, creative, and innovative space. We invite you to a library that is truly beyond the walls.
We offer far beyond physical books. Whether you need access to our rich e-resources and digital collections, a seat in our state-of-the-art computer lab, the magnificent Pabwalo multipurpose space for knowledge, arts and ideas, or the convenience of our mobile library that brings knowledge directly to your community; we are here for you, wherever you are.
Our doors are open — physically and digitally. Step in, log on, and discover a library built for the nation’s future.”We warmly welcome you to explore, engage, and grow with us. The library belongs to you.
Yours sincerely,
NLS News
World Literacy Day
Every year Malawi joins the entire world in commemoration of World Literacy Day. This is an annual event which is celebrated on 8th September. The Malawi National Library Service decisively participate in these events. This year the event was held in Rumphi.