Librarian Training and Professional Opportunities in Bangladesh

Authors

  • Jody Bales Foote Southern Illinois University
  • S. M. Mannan Dhaka University

Abstract

This paper examines the infrastructure for library education in Bangladesh, including curriculum at all levels, and political considerations. A certificate course was introduced in 1958, master’s program in 1962, and doctoral program in 1979. All those programs have been at Dhaka University, which now has 14 professors of library science. Rajshahi University initiated a post-graduate diploma course in 1992, and a B.S.S. course in 1993. All curricula are traditional, with no practical computer applications up to this time. Continuing education opportunities are provided by the Library Association of Bangladesh, with some support from USIS, British Council, and agencies of other countries. Donor agencies also offer various international exchanges (study, teaching, visits) for professional personnel. Employment of librarians within Bangladesh has been satisfactory, but compensation in most libraries is low. Special libraries pay better than others, and have better technology. Political turmoil has been the cause of numerous shutdowns in the public universities, leading to an emergence of private universities, but none of these has yet undertaken instruction in library science.

Author Biographies

Jody Bales Foote, Southern Illinois University

Jody Bales Foote is Assistant Professor, Education/Psychology Division, Southern Illinois University.

S. M. Mannan, Dhaka University

S.M. Mannan is Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Library and Information Science, Dhaka University, Bangladesh.

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Issue

Vol. 6 No. 2 (1996)

Section

Articles

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