A framework for the integration of indigenous knowledge into libraries in South Africa

Abstract

This article is part of a larger study which explored the integration of indigenous knowledge into public library services in South Africa in an endeavour to enhance their relevance. Four purposefully selected provincial library services comprised the sample for the study. Semi- structured interviews with heads of provincial library services were conducted to collect data. The data was analysed thematically. The results show that indigenous knowledge has not been integrated into public libraries, despite the expressed need identified by the participants. A framework that identifies stakeholders and their responsibilities, as well as envisaged outcomes for the integration of indigenous knowledge, is proposed. Similar studies are recommended for further research in order to customise the proposed framework, given the fact that the participants in the study from which the article is extracted were heads of library services who did not work directly with communities.