Advocacy for libraries: A South African perspective

Abstract

Libraries have been presented with an unprecedented opportunity to make a contribution to the development agendas, principally the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Libraries need to talk about the valuable work they are doing in their communities by making use of activities, data/ statistics, and stories, to relate to the SDGs and to align themselves with national development plans. Most South Africans still do not have adequate access to libraries or information services. Communities in rural parts of the country have been largely excluded from any meaningful development and suffer from a lack of infrastructure. Illiteracy, unemployment, health care, economic development and education remain major national challenges. Having access to libraries and information could make all the difference to the quality of lives and circumstances for all people. Libraries have a critical role to play in the lives of information deprived communities. Not only do libraries nurture and grow literacy, but also they are better positioned to serve community development and enhance social cohesion.