The Challenge of Medical Librarianship in Africa

Authors

  • Daniel Newton Obaka Ahmadu Bello University School of Medicine

Abstract

Discusses progress in medical librarianship in Africa since the 1960s. Considerable research has emerged, medical education has developed, and guidelines for medical libraries are being created. Several associations of medical librarians exist. Bibliographic control remains a serious problem. An adequate information base is needed, and international cooperation must be pursued within Africa to permit unification of education resources. Steps must be taken to enhance governmental awareness of medical library needs. It is suggested that appropriate professional organizations prepare goal statements and define standards; those organizations could also centralize research efforts that require funding from non–African sources. The thrust of the paper is to emphasize the work that can be done by Africans themselves before they seek external assistance.

Author Biography

Daniel Newton Obaka, Ahmadu Bello University School of Medicine

Daniel Newton Obaka is a Librarian, Ahmadu Bello University School of Medicine, Zaria, Nigeria. He has written on the history of medical libraries in Africa for International Library Review.

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Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (1991)

Section

Articles

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