About
About LibrariansInTech
Supporting African library professionals to develop relevant technology skills
Technology continues to influence how information is created, accessed, managed, and used. These changes are also affecting how libraries operate and deliver services to their communities.
LibrariansInTech provides an opportunity for library students and professionals to understand these changes, explore emerging technologies, and consider how technology can be applied to library work.
LibrariansInTech is an initiative of Library Aid Africa.
"LibrariansInTech is designed to build technology awareness and capability among library professionals across Africa."
Why LibrariansInTech?
Libraries need professionals who can work confidently with technology
The increasing use of technology in libraries has created new opportunities for service delivery, information management, data use, and access to digital resources.
However, many library professionals across Africa have limited opportunities to develop the technology skills required to respond to these changes. There is also a growing need for library education and professional development to include areas such as information technology, data science, and other emerging technologies.
LibrariansInTech provides a platform where library professionals can learn about these developments and consider how they relate to their work.
Our objectives
LibrariansInTech aims to:
01
Increase awareness of technology skills
Help library professionals understand the importance of technology and digital skills to their professional development and the future of librarianship.
02
Demonstrate practical applications of technology
Show how technology can be used to improve library services, operations, information access, and engagement with library users.
03
Encourage technology skills development
Encourage library professionals to identify and develop at least one technology skill relevant to their work or professional interests.
04
Facilitate knowledge exchange
Create opportunities for library students and professionals to share experiences and learn from one another.
How LibrariansInTech works
Organised in cohorts, led by hosts.
01
Applications Open
Library professionals across Africa apply to host events.
02
Hosts Selected & Onboarded
Selected hosts receive materials and onboarding from Library Aid Africa.
03
Events Organised
Hosts organise events within their communities, in person or virtually.
04
Impact Documented
Hosts submit information on attendance, feedback, and outcomes.
Event formats
In Person Events
Hosts can organise a physical LibrariansInTech event in a library, classroom, office, park, or another suitable location.
Virtual Events
Hosts can organise a virtual LibrariansInTech event using an online platform such as Zoom. Virtual events allow participants from different locations to take part.
Support from Library Aid Africa
- Programme materials
- Access to Zoom for virtual events
- Guidance during event preparation
- Promotional designs and communication support
- Coordination and communication throughout the cohort
Who Can Host?
Library professionals across Africa who are interested in technology, professional development, and the future of libraries can apply to host a LibrariansInTech event.
You do not need to be a technology specialist to apply.
Apply to Host