The National Library Service (NLS) is a statutory corporation established under the National Library Service Act of 1967. We operate nation-wide public library and information services in Malawi.
Our mission is to ensure that the people of Malawi have access to educational, training, recreational and information materials for national development. From our headquarters in Lilongwe to branches in Mzuzu and Blantyre, and through mobile library services in rural communities, we are working to build a reading nation.
What we do
- Provide lending and reference services in our branches and reading rooms.
- Deliver mobile library services to schools and underserved communities.
- Give members access to e-books, online databases and open education resources.
- Promote a culture of reading through competitions, book clubs and public programmes.
- Preserve and make available Malawi's documentary heritage.
Our vision
A reading nation is a leading nation. We are building a library that is truly beyond the walls — open physically and digitally to every Malawian.
Our branches
Our services are delivered from the headquarters in Lilongwe and regional branches in the Central, Southern and Northern regions, supported by mobile library routes that reach schools and communities across the country. See our full district network →
Whether you are a student, a researcher, a teacher or a lifelong learner, the library belongs to you. Visit us, register for membership, or explore our e-resources online.