Rockland library to screen ‘How to Build a Library’ documentary

Rockland Public Library to Screen Documentary on Kenyan Library Project

Rockland, ME – The Rockland Public Library will host a special screening of the documentary How to Build a Library on Thursday, September 10, at 6:00 p.m. The film, directed by Maia Lekow and Christopher King, follows two Nairobi women—Angela Wachuka and Shiro Koinange—as they transform a former whites‑only building into a library and community hub in Kenya.

The documentary explores how Wachuka and Koinange navigated Kenya’s colonial legacy, local politics, and the daunting task of raising millions of dollars to sustain the project. It highlights themes of decolonization, representation, cultural renewal, and the power of friendship and collaboration.

The event is open to all members of the public. Screenings will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 10, in the library’s main reading room. The Rockland Public Library is located at 80 Union Street, Rockland. For further details, patrons may contact Jeannie Sullivan at 594‑0310.

The screening is sponsored by Bowdoin College’s “Times Record Sustaining Sponsor” program, which supports community‑focused events that promote informed civic engagement.

Rockland residents and film enthusiasts are encouraged to attend the event and experience a compelling story of community building and resilience from afar.