Librarians urge staff to make use of ministry libraries

WINDHOEK, 28 MAR – Librarians stationed at ministry libraries last year decided to host events that create awareness of the facilities and encourage Government staff to make use of it.
This was after they realised staff members do not utilise the libraries at their respective ministries.
Advocacy events are held on a quarterly basis, with the fourth information awareness advocacy event held at the Ministry of Environment and Tourism from last Friday until Tuesday.
Deputy Minister of Environment and Tourism, Bernadette Jagger during the event elaborated on the vital role libraries play in ensuring that staff in the ministries have adequate resources that will assist them to execute their duties timely, efficiently and in a professional manner.
“Broaden your knowledge and make sure you submit well researched reports,” she said.
Ministerial libraries provide technical and scientific information, covering key areas of Namibia’s economy.
These libraries also train and assist staff members to effectively access information and use relevant technology by creating awareness of the emerging technologies and best practices in information and knowledge management.
Membership is limited to Government staff members.
Jagger said ministerial libraries are not prioritised and are underfunded. She called on management to ensure adequate budget allocations to libraries to ensure that print and electronic collections are updated and maintained.
The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture has deployed librarians to 14 libraries at various ministries.

NAMPA