Strategic library and information services models for the visually impaired persons: The South African Library for the Blind perspective

Abstract

The South African Library for the Blind (SALB) contributes to the quality of life of print-impaired people encouraging independence through access to information, informed decision making, and taking pleasure in the enjoyment of recreational reading. In realizing the vision, SALB implemented two strategic models; agent mini-libraries and comprehensive mini-libraries. Management and administration of the services rendered is covered in detail. The project was pioneered in one of the provinces and has been rolled out to other provinces. The paper highlights how visually impaired people experience in a tangible manner, assistive technologies, training and interaction with community members and use libraries.

Keywords:

• Administration of mini-libraries
• information literacy – South African Library for the Blind
• South Africa
• mini-libraries – establishment
• monitoring and evaluation
• strategy development and implementation – visually impaired
• training and development – blind and visually impaired persons
• visual impairment

Acknowledgments

The following organizations and people for their significant contribution in the establishment of mini-libraries:

Seun Feekoei – Library member in Jansenville Public library, Sarah Baartman District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.

Floretha Bhe – Librarian in Jansenville Public library.

Department of Arts and Culture

SALB management and staff, Mr François Hendrikz, Director, Ms. Pumla Mahanjana, Production Services Manager; Growth of Mini-libs, Ms. Neli Kaunda, Senior Managers, Library and Information Services (2014–2015) and Ms. Linda Ngayeka (2016).

University of Cape Town (UCT) Library and Information Studies Department: Information Literacy Centre