Integrating a Community Library into the Teaching and Learning Programme of Local Schools

Abstract

According to estimates by Statistics South Africa, only 33% of learners in the Limpopo Province (one of the nine Provinces in South Africa) have access to a functional school library or media centre. This has been regarded as one of the main factors which have contributed to the Province consistently producing one of the lowest pass rates in comparison to its counterparts. While there was enthusiasm amongst some teachers that the establishment of Seshego Community Library would bring some relief to educators starved of a functional library service in their schools, some teachers and learners were not as enthusiastic and receptive to the Community Library. This paper explores some of the barriers inherent in introducing a library to a community which was not previously exposed to, and accustomed to making use of its services, and making it an integral part of the teaching and learning programme. Issues of resistance to the community library’s outreach programme, largely emanating from lack of motivation and a low morale amongst some teachers and principals alike, as well as an erosion in the culture of teaching and learning, are explored. There is a need to break down the existing barriers to encourage teachers and learners to make use of the Community Library’s services and facilities to add value to their teaching and learning endeavours.