Poverty, Social Exclusion, and the Potential of South African Public Libraries and Community Centres

Abstract

Is the full potential of public libraries and community centres, in combating poverty and social exclusion in disadvantaged communities, acknowledged in South Africa and can a heightened awareness of their role as social institutions make a difference in this regard? In addressing these questions, the researcher defines social exclusion and identifies its characteristics. Poverty is also defined and its statistics are provided for South Africa. Sachs' (2005) concept of the role of 'public understanding' in poverty reduction strategies is considered in conjunction with the role of libraries in combating social exclusion. The research approach comprises a survey of the literature on attempts to address social exclusion. The results of a survey are presented, and identify specific, achievable, local instances of social exclusion initiatives from South Africa. The research is qualitative and uses a simple form of thematic analysis. The initiatives identified support the view that efforts at broad social inclusion are found in South African public libraries and community centres. While small scale in its reach, the work of public libraries and community centres is being directed at areas where the need is very great in terms of addressing poverty. In depth studies of the communities are needed to evaluate the projects and their level of success. Collaborative approaches, together with adequate funding from government are likely to succeed in fostering social inclusion in the longer term and libraries have the potential to be key role players. Ideas and practice about the development of such endeavours should be shared.