Training at the Glassroots: an integrated approach to training library assistants in Southern Sudan

Since training of library staff in Southern Sudan began in 1978 a training structure has evolved to meet the country's specific needs. Due to social and economic conditions, only small-scale and piecemeal library development can be realized. Training axioms must be based on an awareness of these limitations. Three levels of courses were developed for library staff by the University of Juba Library which started organizing training programmes for its own staff and those of other libraries due to lack of skilled personnel. These were: the Certificate Course in Librarianship, in-service courses and short courses. Details of the curriculum, training staff, selection principles and teaching tools are given. The University Library plays a vital role in advising on library development in Southern Sudan. Examines the problems that arose in regard to training: selection of suitable candidates; lack of organizational support; practical application of training; poor level of English expression; and lack of local examples of good library practice.