Prevailing Status of School Libraries in South Africa: Challenges and Suggestions

Abstract

School libraries are the backbones of the mother body, which is a school. They are also regarded as the hub in which a wide range of library collections are made available in order to meet the information needs of learners, students and teachers. There are more challenges that are associated with libraries in South Africa. The research method employed to collect data concerning school libraries in South Africa, their challenges, and the current status of school libraries in South Africa, is a literature review along with narrative and integrative approach. Considerable literature exists on various aspects of a school library and the challenges faced by them in South African schools. The aim of this conceptual article is to highlight the school libraries in South Africa as well as the current status of school libraries in South Africa. Based on the literature review, this study brings to light the different aspects of the school libraries. The study recommends that a school library should be a place that is conducive to learning. The library should also provide both teachers and learners with a location that encourages individual study, group cooperation and a big group exhibition.