NGO-Developed Libraries in India: Impacts, Models, and New Possibilities.

This article examines a neglected aspect of international librarianship, namely the role of NGOs (nongovernmental organizations) in the development and management of public and community libraries. We present a case study of NGOs operating in neglected and underserved slum areas of the southern Indian metropolis of Bangalore. This case study is based on recent field research the authors have conducted, and provides insights into this alternative model of library development. The qualitative research methods employed in the field research include face-to-face interviews, focus groups, and observations. One of the important findings of this research is that communitybased libraries are viable and important components of a social development agenda in India. However, more research is needed to study the role of NGOs in library development, both in India and in other parts of the developing world. NGOs can be effective service delivery mechanisms, but also can suffer from issues of sustainability, governance, and accountability. Thus while NGOs are reaching some of the most marginalized populations in India through their library services, the government still has an important role to play in library development. An enhanced government-run public library system, in combination with these other NGO services, might present an ideal scenario for serving the largest cross section of the public most effectively. This research confirms the need for and importance of community library services in India. As we move forward, developing larger-scale models and finding best practices in this area should be a concern for future researchers, concerned citizens, library officials, and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]