Library

Library Policy Recommendations

• Libraries have to be an essential part of a long-term policy framework for the
whole education sector, embracing literacy, information provision and lifelong
learning;
• Libraries must be supported by specific legislation and must be adequately
financed by national and local governments;
• Libraries offer a unique and cost effective means of providing access to
information for all by sharing resources;
• Libraries have to be based on a community needs analysis and constantly make
their services relevant to community needs;
• Libraries have to offer a wide range of activities, with a special focus on reaching
out to marginalized groups;
• Libraries are the logical access point and support centre for community-based
literacy programs. They have to particularly support family literacy, as a literate
home environment is the key factor in enabling and motivating children to read;
• Libraries have to co-operate and network with other education stakeholders and
the local publishing industry;
• Libraries can only be effectively strengthened as part of the local book chain.