Library associations in Africa: past and present

Abstract

This article provides a brief overview of library associations in Africa from the 1930s to the present. Lack of members is a continuing difficulty, as is extending activities outside the main urban areas. The Internet now offers opportunities for improved communication, but most association websites are still in an early stage of development. Involvement in accreditation of education and training is restricted by the fact that few countries apart from Nigeria have more than one or two programmes producing library and information professionals. Newsletters are successfully published by a number of associations, but journals have tended to be a problem. Regional associations have been set up, or earlier ones brought back to life. Good leadership makes a significant difference to the success of an association.

Innovation Vol. 31 2005: 1-8