Library Services For Neo-Literates: Some Challenges

Abstract

This article attempts to draw attention to the need to consider providing services for neo-literates. Neo-literates by virtue of their age belong to the reproductive and productive age group and therefore play a very important role in society. It looks at the illiteracy situation in Ghana, and attempts made by the government to eradicate illiteracy by the establishment of the Non-Formal Education Division of the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports. The paper argues that libraries have an essential role to play to help neo-literates sustain literacy skills. It suggests that there should be networking between libraries and adult literacy providers, writers and the media. It is also suggested that librarians should provide proactive services to attract neo-literates to the library.

Keywords: Library Services, Public Libraries, Neo-Literates, Non-Formal Education, Ghana

Ghana Library Journal Vol. 19 (1) 2007 pp. 53-68