The Community Librarians Capacity Building Workshop

We are excited to announce the upcoming Community Librarians Capacity Building Workshop, taking place from 14 – 17 October at the GZK Library. This workshop is the result of a collaborative effort between the Goethe-Zentrum Kampala (GZK) and the Community Libraries Association of Uganda (COLAU), reflecting our shared commitment to strengthening grassroots library initiatives across the country.

Why This Workshop?

Community libraries play a vital role in promoting literacy, access to information, and lifelong learning — especially in underserved areas. However, many of these libraries face challenges related to outdated systems, limited resources, and a lack of training opportunities for staff. This workshop aims to address some of these gaps and empower librarians with practical tools and knowledge they can take back to their communities.

What Will Be Covered?

Over four days, participants will engage in hands-on sessions and discussions focusing on key areas critical to the sustainability and growth of community libraries:

• Collection Management: Best practices for selecting, organizing, and maintaining library materials.
• Book Processing: Practical skills for cataloging, labeling, and preparing books for circulation.
• Library Automation: Introduction to tools and technologies that can help small libraries streamline their operations.
• Social Media for Libraries: Strategies to increase visibility, engage local communities, and promote reading culture online.

We look forward to welcoming librarians working in community libraries and working together toward building stronger, more connected libraries for all.

Stay tuned for updates, highlights, and stories from the workshop!