Continuing education and training programmes for library and information personnel in South Africa's educational institutions

The paper assesses continuing education programmes and initiatives in the library and information service (LIS) sector of South Africa. The LIS sector like many others in South Africa has been adversely affected by the past policy of apartheid. The paper briefly looks at the policy of separate development and how it has left educational institutions, including LIS personnel, and organizations unevenly developed. It argues that in spite of the availability of programmes most LIS personnel, especially those who do not belong to professional organizations and those from previously disadvantaged institutions etc., have not benefited from these programmes. The paper identifies some critical areas for continuing education and possible delivery institutions and organizations. It concludes by reiterating the need for continually assessing training needs, levels of training required, keeping track of available programmes and encouraging institutions to commit resources to continuing education for professional development.