By Helena Asamoah-Hassan | Project Leader
Training, a game changer in the provision of innovative information access services
Numerous challenges face easy access to information in Namibia that the libraries under the Namibia Library and Archives Service (NLAS) under the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture can address through innovative information services. These challenges include low literacy rates particularly among the youth, bringing about a lack of adequate literacy skills; limited access to information because many community members do not have access to national and international information resources, limiting their ability to engage in lifelong learning; lack of awareness about copyright laws and so affecting the protection of intellectual property; and limited public engagement with the library and archive services which, reduces the community's exposure to valuable information resources.
The International Network of Emerging Library Innovators (INELI SSAf) program assisted Hilma with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle these challenges effectively. She learned about how to develop and implement innovative library services that cater to the unique needs of the community; engagement with various community groups to foster a culture of reading and information sharing; education on Intellectual property and copyright laws which is crucial for promoting creativity and diversity; anddigital literacy and access techniques to promote digital literacy and improve access to digital resources, ensuring equitable access to information.
With the knowledge gained from the INELI SSAf program, Hilma found the 2024 World Book and Copyright Day as an opportunity to implement strategies to tackle the challenges within the community by drawing more people to the library and archive services. The celebration of the World Book and Copyright Day by NLAS was held on 23rd April 2024 and was conducted in collaboration with the National Archives of Namibia; the Educational Library Service (ELS) and the Community Library Service under the theme “Read Your Way” aligning with National Library of Namibia’s ongoing efforts to champion creativity, diversity and equal access to knowledge.
Hilma led her colleagues to organise reading sessions in collaboration with the ELS and partnered with local organisations to provide greater access to national and international information resources. Training on how to use these resources effectively was offered as well as seminars and interactive sessions to raise awareness about copyright laws and the importance of intellectual property protection. These sessions were targeted at authors, publishers, and the general public which is now an ongoing activity. The audience ranged from young readers to established authors and publishers. Namibian Authors and Publishers were also celebrated with a ceremony dedicated to honour Namibian authors and publishers who have significantly contributed to the literary landscape
The library increased engagement with its user communities through various activities such as interactive storytelling events; an Author Meet-and-Greet session where attendees had the opportunity to interact with their favourite authors, ask questions, and receive signed copies of their books; promotion of the use of libraries and archives, including guided tours to the facilities of the National Library to learn about the resources available and how to access them and to view special exhibits showcasing rare and historical documents highlighting Namibia’s rich cultural heritage and also the promotion of creativity and diversity; cultural performances by local artistes, including poetry readings, music, and traditional dances, celebrating Namibia’s cultural diversity to conclude the celebration.
Since then, the patronage of the library has improved; more people understand why they need to respect intellectual property and obey its laws, authors are being respected and appreciated and a strong bond has been formed between the community and the library. Hilma with a smile on her face said “INELI SSAf, where have you been all these years until recently, it is better late than never though. I now know how better to serve my community’s information and cultural needs. What I learned from INELI SSAf was the wind under my wings which energised the whole library to run this event.”
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