First Steps
Planning and managing a resource centre with limited prior knowledge or training in information management is a challenging task. Therefore, we have put together this simple guideline, listing a variety of issues to be considered when setting-up a resource centre. Each section includes links to further information. This is not a fixed process to be followed, but rather a pool of steps that can be used to create your own plan.
When setting-up a basic resource centre, it is crucial to plan well from the beginning. Planning is an ongoing process that needs to be continuously worked on throughout the years. 1.1 Assessing the Need for a Resource Centre In a first step, it has to be determined whether there is a need for a new resource centre at all. There are various tools to be used for this assessment, e.g. community mapping, focus group discussions, public meetings, etc. If there is a need to establish a centre, the following questions could be considered:
1.2 Form a Library / Advisory Committee
1.3 Sustainable and Strategic Planning
Information for this section is compiled from:
For further information:
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2.1 Staffing
2.2 Financial Planning
2.3 Fundraising and Income Generation
2.4 Accountability
2.5 Training
2.6 Opening Hours
2.7 Rules and Regulations
2.8 Monitoring and Evaluation
For further information: Healthlink Worldwide: Resource Center Manual: How to set up and manage a Resource Center. London: Healthlink Worldwide, 2003. Mchombu, Kingo J.: Sharing Knowledge for Community Development and Transformation. 2nd ed. Ottawa: Oxfam Canada, 2004. 104 p. |
3.1 Location
3.2 Planning the Layout
3.3 Choosing Furniture and Equipment (for a list, please have a look at the manual)
Information for this section is compiled from:
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“It is important to collect only materials that will be useful. Materials that are not relevant to users, or that are badly written or translated, are a waste of time and space. The collection needs to be balanced in terms of subject areas and formats, to meet the needs of all users, not just some” (Healthlink Worldwide, 2003). 4.1 Developing a Collection Policy
4.2 Selection of Materials
4.3 Obtaining Materials
4.4 Updating the Collection
For further information on indigenous and local knowledge:
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Try not to make the organisation of information and materials too difficult. Keep it simple. 5.1 Classification
5.2 Keywords
5.3 Cataloguing
5.4 Shelving and Displaying
Information for this section is compiled from:
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6.1 IT Equipment
6.2 Cataloguing Software
6.3 Electronic Databases
6.4 Digital Recordkeeping
6.5 Website and E-mail
Information for this section is compiled from:
For further information:
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“One of the most important tasks of a resource centre is to make information available and encourage people to use it, by offering a range of information services. Information services should improve access to information, not only for people who can come and visit the resource centre, but also for those who are based far away, or who cannot come in for other reasons.” (Healthlink Worldwide, 2003) Always consider the results of the needs assessment when developing such services or carry out a new assessment if needed. 7.1 Workshops and Trainings
7.2 Newsletters 7.3 Internet / Computer Services 7.4 Introductory Sessions for Users 7.5 Information Campaigns 7.6 Lending Service
7.7 Advocacy and Promotion
7.8 Networks
Information for this section is compiled from:
For further information:
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