Musoke, Maria G. N.2023-01-252023-01-252013Musoke, M. G. N., & Namugera, L. (2013). The End Justified the Means: Building Makerere University Library Extension with a Low Budget. Kampala: Makerere University.https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/9783110375435-009/html?lang=enhttps://nru.uncst.go.ug/handle/123456789/7191The paper shares the experience of Makerere University librarians, Uganda, in raising funds locally and setting up a model academic library in Sub-Saharan Africa. The first building of the Makerere University Main Library was opened in 1959, extended in 1972 and doubled its space in 2011. Both the growing number of students and advances in information and communication technology led to the need for the construction of a new library building extension, which is connected to the old building by a bridge. The recent extension made it possible to cater for information and communication technology facilities previously difficult to fit in the old architecture. Due to financial constraints, however, the extension was built in a phased manner; the first half of the building (4,000 m2) was completed in 2007, while the second half (also 4,000 m2) was completed in 2011 and opened with a colourful ceremony in 2012. The paper reports the expanded facilities that have provided infinite possibilities for library users and have increased overall library usage. For example, modern libraries provide space for collaborative work, which was lacking in the old building; group study rooms with wi-fi connectivity have been used since 2007. Additional information and communication technology facilities for different categories of library users including those with disabilities are outlined. A Research Commons providing a one-stop centre for academic work was established. Makerere was the first university to provide such a facility in Uganda. A Learning Commons for undergraduate students, a multimedia unit, a mothers’ space for expectant library users and staff, a fountain to provide the soothing sound for the 24/7 reading area and a music digital archive are highlighted. Indeed, the new library building has provided infinite opportunities as development partners were attracted to support the effort of librarians and donated modern information and communication technology facilities and furnishing for the new building. The paper finally reports the various lessons learned.enBuildingMakerere University Library ExtensionLow BudgetArticle