esl in libraries : communicating with our communities by bernards township library

It takes an integrated approach to literacy and lifelong learning using community libraries in order to support people to be able to address contemporary social and economic issues, including low literacy levels and a poor reading culture. The Uganda Rural Literacy and Community Development Association (URLCODA), for example, coordinates 16 community libraries that are part of the Uganda Community Library Association. The 100-plus libraries and information services which belong to the network include several excellent examples of community libraries that are actively enhancing literacy developments and lifelong learning. The Adult Learning Documentation and Information Network (ALADIN), coordinated by the UIL Library since 1997, provides a space in which community libraries can share experience and learn from each other, enabling them to strengthen and harness their potential. This is done not only by providing access to reading materials, but also by offering literacy training and linking literacy activities to practical livelihood concerns. They do not primarily target the mostly literate, urban populations, but rather develop diverse ways to provide various learning opportunities to marginalized populations. In comparison to public libraries, community libraries are often small and usually not supported by government funds. They represent one of many alternative library models that have emerged since the 1970s. But what is it that make community libraries so effective?Ĭommunity libraries are established, owned and managed by and for a specific community, clearly based on community needs.

Community libraries, in particular, have demonstrated great potential in supporting literacy development and lifelong learning through diverse services and successful outreach activities. They are constantly evolving and responding to social, cultural, economic and political changes in their environment. Lisa Krolak on the critical role community libraries play in promoting literacy development and lifelong learningĪll over the world, libraries serve as proactive community and learning spaces that directly address the needs of children, youth and adults. Former UIL scholar Karma Lhazom, Country Director of READ Bhutan, reading with a group of school children at a community library in eastern Bhutan.

Esl in libraries : communicating with our communities by bernards township library