Public Library Politics: The Ugandan Perspective

Abstract

Edited version of a paper presented at the World Library and Information Congress, 69th IFLA General Conference, Berlin, Germany, 1-8 August 2003. Provides a perspective on public library politics in Uganda. Reports the views of politicians, civil servants and library association leaders regarding the role of public library and information services in Uganda, especially in the decision making process in government and the democratic process in the country, and their contribution to economic development and policy priorities. Data was collected through literature review and a questionnaire survey. The historical development of the public library is included as background. Views resulting from the debate on public library services in the Ugandan parliament are included. Findings show the feelings of respondents on the importance of public library services and the problems affecting them. Recommendations provide a basis for public library development in the country.