Libraries, literacy and technology: A new training module for public librarians in developing countries targeted at integrating libraries into literacy programs
Ari Katz · 2015
Despite the natural link, most public library systems in the developing world are not formally connected to large-scale literacy initiatives led by either the government or international donors. This gap represents a significant missed opportunity for both sides. Libraries are missing a chance to increase their relevance and attract new resources, while literacy programs struggle to find a sustainable mechanism for supporting the essential community support element of literacy achievement. This paper discusses a Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation funded program Beyond Access which has developed and recently published a new training module for public librarians that is meant to be a first step towards addressing this disconnect.