A qualitative perspective of the role of Malawi Library Association in developing librarianship in Malawi: opportunities and challenges
ISSN: 0143-5124
Article publication date: 22 December 2023
Issue publication date: 21 February 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to unpack the role of Malawi Library Association (MALA) in developing librarianship in Malawi. It also explores an array of opportunities and challenges that are present for MALA.
Design/methodology/approach
The study applies the interpretivist paradigm for the research design. Qualitative data were collected from a purposeful sample totaling 24 practicing librarians and paraprofessionals in different work environments to inform the study phenomenon.
Findings
The study gathers that the role of MALA has been in its infancy stage for a long time. However, the apparent developments of MALA manifest in its pro-educational initiatives. Overall, MALA is impeded by a litany of obstacles such as financial constraints and a lack of advocacy strategy.
Originality/value
The study theorizes the role of MALA by triangulating the advocacy coalition framework, institutional theory and professionalization theory in the library and information practice.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors are highly indebted to the editor, anonymous reviewers and the research participants for the support rendered to this paper.
Citation
Simwaka, K., Chifuniro, E., Chalochiwawa, R., Kabwilo, T.M. and Chimutu, S. (2024), "A qualitative perspective of the role of Malawi Library Association in developing librarianship in Malawi: opportunities and challenges", Library Management, Vol. 45 No. 1/2, pp. 88-100. https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-08-2023-0079
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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