The Public Library in a Changing Society Viewed in the Light of the UNESCO Manifest. The African Experience. Occasional Paper No. 13.

Using the UNESCO Public Library Manifesto as a basis for discussion, this paper examines the role of the public library within developing countries and reviews the major developments in public library services in Africa subsequent to the two UNESCO seminars on Public Library Development held in Nigeria in 1962. A number of key statements from the UNESCO Manifesto are quoted and discussed. The recommendations of the seminars on Public Library Development in Africa are then summarized with respect to: (1) the role of libraries in educational, economic, and social development; (2) the development of national plans for public library services; (3) the production, acquisition, and selection of books and other library materials; (4) customs duties affecting libraries; (5) the development of branch libraries and bookmobile programs; and (6) the financial support of public libraries. Specific developments which followed from the recommendations are described, with emphasis on the series of conferences that led to the formulation and implementation of the National Information System (NATIS) concept. A consideration of the importance of rural services closes the report. A 9-item reference list accompanies the text. (JL)