Strategies Used by Public Libraries to Advance Human Development in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa

Sheron Ndlovu; Ndakasharwa Muchaonyerwa

doi:10.25159/2663-659X/19108

Authors

Sheron Ndlovu University of Fort Hare https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4601-9789
Ndakasharwa Muchaonyerwa University of Fort Hare https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4359-3059

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-659X/19108

Keywords:

public libraries, transformation, South Africa, human development, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, digital inclusion, community transformation

Abstract

Public libraries support education, lifelong learning, digital inclusion and community development. This study investigated the strategies used by public libraries in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa to advance human development. A mixed-methods design combined questionnaires completed by library patrons with interviews and observations involving library officials. The reported sample comprised 249 participants. The findings identified six interrelated contributions: inclusive services, safe and accessible community spaces, study and meeting spaces, relevant print and digital collections, programmes that support learning and recreation, and access to information and communication technologies that help to bridge the digital divide. The study recommends sustained community-awareness campaigns, greater use of social media for communication with patrons, investment in relevant resources and programmes, and reliable internet connectivity.

Author Biographies

Sheron Ndlovu, University of Fort Hare

Sheron Ndlovu (PhD) is a Lecturer in the Discipline of Library and Information Science at the University of Fort Hare in South Africa. Her research interests are in Artificial Intelligence, Public libraries, Higher Education, Public Administration, Records Management and Digitisation. She has great exposure of over 10 years in the local and Provincial Government within the fields of Library and Information Science and records management. She has great exposure also in the field of research.

Ndakasharwa Muchaonyerwa, University of Fort Hare

PhD. A Senior Lecturer at the University of Fort Hare in the discipline of Library and Information Science in the faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities under the Department of Liberation Studies.

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