Rachel Melita takes a closer look at this acclaimed documentary and the story behind it.
How to Build a Library explores the history and uncertain future of one of Nairobi's most significant public libraries, setting the scene for a compelling story of renewal and change. The McMillan Memorial Library was built in 1931/32 and was originally reserved for white Europeans, only opening to Kenyans in 1958. The building itself is in a state of disrepair when Kenyan author and publisher Wanjiru Koinange (also known as Shiro Koinange) joins forces with Angela Wachuka, a Kenyan publisher, co-founder of Book Bunk and co-director of Nairobi Litfest. United by a shared desire to preserve Kenya's literary heritage, reclaim its historical narratives and make literature more accessible to future generations, the two women embark on a mission to restore the library and transform it into a more inclusive and welcoming public space.
However, as they delve deeper into the library's condition and history, they uncover challenges that extend far beyond its deteriorating infrastructure and neglected appearance. Its collections reflect a deeply entrenched colonial legacy, dominated by British historical narratives and offering limited representation of Kenyan and wider African voices. This discovery underscores the importance of re-examining not only the library's physical space but also the knowledge it preserves and the histories it tells. At the heart of their mission is an effort to reclaim space for Kenyan narratives, ensuring that future generations have access to literature and historical accounts that reflect their own identities, cultures and lived experiences.
As the restoration process gets underway, these two women organise the first Book Bunk event to attract support and secure funding for the project. However, the event's guest list sparks tension when Angela is confronted over the exclusion of certain government officials and the failure to observe protocol. This puts the women in a difficult position: they need government support but are wary of the project becoming politicised. Despite these escalating tensions, the event draws an impressive crowd, generating much-needed funding and publicity.
With the British Council's backing, Book Bunk raises almost one million dollars, attracting international funders and winning the endorsement of government officials. The project soon expands beyond McMillan to other Nairobi libraries, including Makadara. But as their ambitions grow, so do the obstacles. Mounting delays, inadequate planning and escalating costs leave Shiro and Angela increasingly frustrated, while contractors warn against proceeding with the renovations. What begins as a restoration project soon becomes a test of their determination, as they struggle to keep their vision alive while overseeing work at the McMillan, Kaloleni and Eastlands libraries.
Behind the film is a creative team with a rich and varied history in film and music. Co-director Maia Lekow is an accomplished Kenyan musician and filmmaker. She composed the documentary’s soundtrack alongside Ken Myhr and Katya Mihailova. Her co-director, Christopher King, is an award-winning filmmaker originally from Melbourne who has lived in Kenya since 2007. During that time, he has worked across cinematography, directing, producing and editing. Together, Maia and Christopher, also a married couple, founded Circle and Square Productions, a Nairobi-based production company, and they’ve been keeping busy. The company’s debut feature film,The Letter (2019), was selected as Kenya’s official submission to the 93rd Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. Now, How to Build a Library marks their second feature documentary. After premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in the World Cinema Documentary Competition, it continues to screen at film festivals around the world.
The visuals are decidedly striking. The library’s ageing architecture, dusty archives, towering shelves and deteriorating interiors highlight both its grandeur and years of neglect. This provides a stark contrast to the vibrant colours of African fabrics, clothing and everyday Nairobi life. There’s also a stillness within the building’s walls that feels wholly distinct from the bustling streets and activity outside. These scenes are interspersed with the history of the space, told through historical photographs and archival footage, giving us an initial grounding and sense of place.
Addressing a packed audience during the Q&A hosted by David O’Mahony, Christopher offers thoughtful and detailed responses, sharing insights into the practicalities and challenges of bringing the film to life. He explains the permits required from the Kenya Film Commission to film in Nairobi, as well as the logistical challenges of coordinating production around the schedules of the two women at the heart of the story. He also reflects on the film’s lengthy eight-year production journey. Initially, Christopher and Maia self-funded the project before bringing several executive producers on board at a later stage.
As a piece of cinema, this documentary is an absolute inspiration. In today's digital age, How to Build a Library highlights the importance of heritage preservation and, ultimately, hope. Through powerful visuals and highly competent storytelling, the film showcases Shiro and Angela's unwavering commitment to creating a better future for the younger generation. Their journey is a testament to what can be achieved through vision, persistence and a belief in the power of community, and gives us something hopeful to hang on to in dark times.
The opening film of last year's IFI Documentary Festival, How to Build a Library screened at the Irish Film Institute (IFI), Dublin, on Wednesday 10th September 2025.
