Library and Information Science (LIS) and Community Development: The Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Towards a Social Equity Agenda

Abstract

This paper addresses the expanded function of the library and information science (LIS) professions in community development initiatives to use information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance social equity in communities. Incorporating dimensions of the metaphor of information ecology in an analysis of the role of the LIS professions in community development helps to identify the close relationship of social equity with ecology and economy in specific contexts. Connecting economy, ecology and social equity as overlapping, interdependent, and mutually encompassing spheres helps LIS professions participate in community development in ways that are more inclusive of people and impacts their lives in more meaningful ways.

Keywords:

• library and information science
• information and communication technology
• information ecology
• social equity