Schools lack dedicated library staff despite upgrades

Despite efforts to modernise school libraries with improved facilities and integration of technology, most schools still lack personnel to manage them effectively. 

The Ministry’s annual report tabled in parliament this month revealed that while some schools have introduced innovations such as air-conditioning and one-stop centres for books, media, and computer access, the absence of full-time librarians has weakened the overall impact.

“The statement reported that the level of library usage is not being properly monitored in most schools due to a lack of appointed staff to oversee daily operations.”

Although the report acknowledged efforts to celebrate Copyright Day and National Library Week to promote reading, it highlighted that the actual effectiveness of these initiatives remains questionable without proper tracking of student engagement and academic outcomes.

In contrast, schools that have employed full-time librarians showed better use of resources and improved student outcomes. However, these cases remain the exception rather than the rule.

“The Ministry observed that improvements such as upgraded libraries with ICT access can only go so far without someone to manage them and gauge their long-term sustainability.”

Experts say that the lack of dedicated library personnel has also made it difficult to measure whether libraries are influencing student behaviour and learning progress. This raises concerns about the sustainability of government investment in school libraries.

The Ministry has not yet provided a clear timeline on whether it plans to mandate the appointment of librarians in all schools.

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