Community Libraries: The Concept and its Application—with Particular Reference to a South African Community Library System

Abstract

Norms for community libraries were established, focusing specifically on the Pinetown community libraries. The five oldest community libraries in the Pinetown public library system were studied by way of questionnaires, interviews and observation. It was hypothesized that public library systems in South Africa have not yet made the paradigm shift to becoming true community libraries. However, the study proved that certain public library systems, such as Pinetown, have made significant progress towards becoming community libraries in the true sense of the word—moving away from the passive traditional Western public library model towards active service-oriented systems, based on the needs of the community as a whole: be it as agents of upliftment and development, or as sources of information and recreation. It can be concluded that certain adaptations still need to be made to become “true” community libraries. For instance, more community involvement in the running of the libraries, individual funds to purchase specific materials needed by the community, and the development of specific skills that will enable the staff to render a pro-active community library service, but the transitional process is still in progress.