Academic Libraries in Africa and Funding

Abstract

This chapter discusses academic libraries and how they've been funded. It shows that funding has been a major problem facing the development of academic libraries in Africa. However, the study found that inadequately skilled librarians, poor image of librarians, and inadequate infrastructure are some of the challenges facing the financing of academic libraries. Since the government is the major source of funding for academic libraries, and its funding is inadequate for the smooth operation of libraries, the need to source alternative sources of financing cannot be over-emphasized. Alternative sources of funding like funding raising through social media, provision of consultancy services, and endowment funds, among others were found to be important in ensuring proper financing of academic libraries in Africa. This study recommends that appointment to the Headship of the library should be based on how the librarian can provide a clear, detailed, and achievable blueprint on how to generate funds for the library.