The Role Of Libraries In Collecting, Documenting, Preserving And Promoting Indigenous Knowledge

Abstract

This study traced the role of libraries in the preservation and makes accessible of Indigenous knowledge. It discussed the issues surrounding the management of Indigenous knowledge in libraries. It examined the various use of indigenous knowledge by array of information users within and outside the libraries. It clarified the traditional library services of identifying, acquiring, organizing, and presentation of IK to the adoption of Information and Communication Technologies. It also highlights the potential role of libraries. The case of academic libraries (including research and University libraries), and the National Library of Ethiopia. Taking Jimma University and Addis Ababa University, Institute of Ethiopian Studies and the National Library of Ethiopia as a case study. It will also considered not only the traditional library functions of collecting, organizing, preserving and providing access (making recorded Indigenous knowledge available), but also possible roles in identifying, locating, recording, raising awareness and promoting of IK. Most Indigenous knowledge, especially in developing countries, is not documented and is transmitted orally from generation to generation. As such, it is vulnerable to gradual disappearance due to the influence of globalization and as individuals who lived life in the old way departs this life. Many libraries/ research institutions recognize Indigenous knowledge (IK) as an important source of developmental information. To this end this article is focused on discussing the role that libraries/ research institutions, Academic libraries and National library can play in collecting documenting, organizing, preserving and disseminating the society’s indigenous knowledge system to the next generation. Thus, this paper is devoted to reveal the existing situation, documentation and accessibility and/or representation of indigenous knowledge in libraries taking University/Research, National library in Addis Ababa and Academic/University library of Jimma as a case study. Regarding to the methodology, descriptive survey method will be employed. Data has been collected using self-designed questionnaire for the project and were analysed. Interview and Focal group discussions will also another method of collecting data. Stratified, and quota along with purposive sampling technique will be employed to select the sample and determine the sample size. At last conclusion based on the findings and recommendation on the possible alternatives were forwarded.