Legislation for National Library Services in Developing Countries

Abstract

An effective national library needs adequate resources and appropriate powers and status, which ideally should be enshrined in national legislation. Crucial elements are the national library's relationship with the state, its authority, and its autonomy. If these are well-founded the library's funding and accountability, its ability to carry through national and international cooperative work, and its freedom to determine priorities and allocate resources flexibly are all safeguarded. In developing countries, national libraries often discharge their responsibilities through a national library service (NLS), via a network of branch and affiliated libraries. The main sections of a typical NLS statute are the definition of terms relating to information materials, their format, reproduction and dissemination; the designation of the institution (if new) as the NLS; the aims of the NLS, neither too restrictive nor unrealistically broad, but taking a long-term view; a statement of functions which indicates in outline the tasks and activities of the NLS in pursuing its aims; the status and powers of the NLS; its governance, including the parent ministry and governing board; its personnel structures and policies, especially the vital issue of its director; collections and other assets; services; and finally financing, organization, and regulations. All this presupposes consultation on national policy and strategy within a political process which will require some compromises. Clear and explicit drafting following fundamental reflection on the nature and purpose of an NLS is therefore essential.