The practice of Amadi’s “barefoot librarianship” in African public libraries: Constraints and prospects

Highlights the concept of “barefoot librarianship” to make the provision of library services more relevant to traditional African people who are largely non‐literate. Enumerates the constraints of the full implementation and practice of this type of grassroots information service which includes poor staffing, equipment, finance, accommodation, etc. Identifies the special training needed for the barefoot librarian who is seen as information specialist, information professional, librarian‐field‐worker and photo‐journalist. Concludes by reiterating that the concept is not a misnomer as it recognizes the peculiarities of the people of Africa and their information needs, as well as the imperatives of modern information techniques.