Challenges faced by libraries in a democratic South Africa

Abstract

Community libraries are crucial for people to have access to information to satisfy their multiple needs. As custodians of information and knowledge in diverse spheres, they play a role in the socioeconomic development of nations. This article attempts to investigate challenges faced by libraries in three different settings in post-apartheid South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative research design. The users, librarians and a wellplaced official of the relevant department were interviewed. Convenience sampling was used to select users and librarians while purposive sampling was used to select an official. Face-to-face interviews and observation and a checklist were used to collect data. Senior officials of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture need to study challenges revealed by the findings and to take action to remedy the situation.

Public and community libraries in Limpopo Province, South Africa: prospects and challenges

“…Today, a community information service is not only delivered to the people through printed books, but also through increased access to computers and the internet. Therefore, public and community libraries have a substantial role to play in providing access to technology-enhanced services, as well as in improving information and communication technology literacies of library users (Mojapelo 2017). Hart (2010: 83) noted that "providing internet connectivity to the developing world will help them realise goals for health, education, employment and poverty reduction".…”

“…Therefore, despite the conditional grant by the DSAC, public and community libraries still face budget-related challenges (Mnkeni-Saurombe 2010, Mojapelo 2017. Due to lack of funding, other key success factors such as space, resources, electricity, internet connectivity, equipment and security are also affected.…”

“…However, "the greater percentage of the population in the province is based in rural areas where poverty, illiteracy and unemployment are prevalent" (Mokgaboki 2002: 78). Mojapelo (2017) noted that the legacy of inequitable apportionment for public and community libraries during the era of apartheid South Africa is still visible in the entire province. It is therefore assumed that the Limpopo's Department of Sport, Arts and Culturethrough its library and information services unitplays a vital role in promoting public libraries and archives in the province through the improvement of access to library facilities and the promotion of a sustainable reading culture (Bopape et al 2017).…”

Information needs of users of E’skia Mphahlele public library in the City of Tshwane municipality, South Africa

“…All public libraries in South Africa fall under the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture. However, it has been noted that, even in post-apartheid South Africa, community libraries are faced with an avalanche of daunting challenges against their mandate to provide library resources for all (Mojapelo 2018). Besides enormous challenges with funding and staffing, Mojapelo (2018) indicated that community libraries, particularly in disadvantaged rural communities, are not getting sufficient support from local governments.…”

“…However, it has been noted that, even in post-apartheid South Africa, community libraries are faced with an avalanche of daunting challenges against their mandate to provide library resources for all (Mojapelo 2018). Besides enormous challenges with funding and staffing, Mojapelo (2018) indicated that community libraries, particularly in disadvantaged rural communities, are not getting sufficient support from local governments. This problem of public libraries not meeting the information needs of their users is not only encountered in South Africa, but in other countries as well.…”