Abstract
Despite legislative and regulatory frameworks that have paved the way for transformation and inclusivity of public libraries in South Africa, there seems to be little or no integration of indigenous knowledge (IK). The exclusion of IK from public library services has potential to counteract efforts towards the provision of inclusive services. This chapter demonstrates how critical theory was used as a lens in a multiple case study that explored the integration of indigenous knowledge (IK) into services of public libraries in South Africa. Looking at the articulation of IK, services that are provided to ensure inclusivity, and issues that impact on IK integration in public libraries, semi-structured interviews were conducted from purposefully selected heads of provincial library services in South Africa. Thematic analysis was used. Using critical theory to frame the analysis, findings indicate understanding of aspects of IK including its oral nature. A paucity of engagement with IK as an aspect of inclusive service provision was noted.
TopIntroduction And Background
Like many other African countries, South Africa was subjected to colonialism resulting in the marginalisation of indigenous communities. Things were to take a turn for worse when the Nationalist Party came into power and introduced apartheid (also known as separate development) in 1948. The ideal of apartheid was based on the notion that for communities to grow and freely participate in their religious, cultural, linguistic and other practices they need to be separated (Prah, 2007). In pursuit of the ideal of apartheid people of South Africa were racially divided into Whites, Coloureds, Indians and Blacks. Service provision (including provision of library services) was also determined along racial lines resulting in poor or non-existent services to Blacks who were the worst affected by discriminatory policies (Mostert, 1999; Nassimbeni, 2014; Owens, 2002; Rodrigues, 2006; Witbooi, 2007).
One of the many changes introduced after the first democratic elections of 1994 was the establishment of new geographical demarcations. Nine, new racially integrated provinces replaced the initial four which were occupied by Whites. Each of the nine provinces differ immensely in terms of population numbers, poverty levels, wealth distribution and service provision requirements. Each province is mandated to provide library services as per Schedule 5 of the Constitution (Republic of South Africa, 1996)
As a young democracy, South Africa is a country that has to deal with historical marginalisation of a large section of society. The library and information services sector is also faced with challenges pertaining to transformation and inclusivity. As such, legislative and regulatory policies and frameworks were developed to guide inclusivity and transformation. Some of the legislative and policy frameworks that impact on libraries are briefly discussed.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Indigenous Languages: All official South African languages other than English and Afrikaans.
Indigenous Communities: South African communities whose languages, cultures and religious practices were marginalised through repressive laws. Based on their ethnicity, these communities were restricted to specific underdeveloped areas within South Africa.
Indigenous Knowledge: Used interchangeably with indigenous knowledge systems to refer to the collective wisdom of communities, which has been transmitted from generation to generation through language, practices, and rituals.