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Preserving African digital resources: is there a role for repository libraries?

Peter Johan Lor (Department of Information Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa)

Library Management

ISSN: 0143-5124

Article publication date: 1 January 2005

1658

Abstract

Purpose

To determine whether repository libraries in developed countries have a role to play in the preservation of the digital resources of developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature‐based conceptual analysis of: categories of digital resources produced in developing countries; capacity of African institutions and stakeholders to preserve African digital resources; and issues and challenges to be faced by repository libraries in preserving these resources.

Findings

The volume of digital material being published in sub‐Saharan Africa is relatively small but it is growing and it is of significance as a part of Africa's heritage. African institutions currently do not have the capacity to collect and preserve this material. It is possible for repository libraries in the north to play a role in ensuring the long‐term preservation and accessibility of digital material from Africa, provided that they take into account certain technical, organisational, economic, political, legal and ethical aspects, especially the “soft” issues. Projects should as far as possible be undertaken in consultation and collaboration with digital resource creators and African heritage institutions.

Research limitations/implications

Based on conditions in sub‐Saharan Africa, with emphasis on South Africa.

Practical implications

Issues that may otherwise be overlooked by institutions in developed countries are identified.

Originality/value

Provides caveats and guidelines for institutions in developed countries that may want to embark on projects to preserve African digital heritage.

Keywords

Citation

Johan Lor, P. (2005), "Preserving African digital resources: is there a role for repository libraries?", Library Management, Vol. 26 No. 1/2, pp. 63-72. https://doi.org/10.1108/01435120510572888

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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