The Tlokwe (SA) & Växjö (SWE) Library Project
Project description
The main objective of this project is to develop library services available for all citizens and at the same time be able to implement new services to meet the increasing demands of having access to information almost at any place and time.
The specific interest for Linnaeus University within this project lies on the field of mobile digital storytelling and cell phone services, which by both project stakeholders has been identified as two of the main areas for investigation and further efforts. LNU will contribute with their expert knowledge and support while identifying problems and needs that may lead to the development of mobile services. This will result in a suggestion of solutions to increase the availability of the library services.
Why does it matter
Storytelling is used frequently at the libraries in Växjö and the Tlokwe partners have expressed an interest in going deeper into storytelling as a method. Furthermore, the partners from Växjö would like this effort to contribute to an increased accessibility for people with disabilities, for people who are illiterate, and for immigrants who could be offered important information in their native language.
The participation of the CeLeKT group at Linnaeus University will contribute to an analysis of the current needs and possible solutions and developments needed for both municipalities in the project. The LNU involvement will also contribute to the establishment of new contacts with researchers at national level.
Partners and funding sources
Tlokwe City Council, South Africa
Växjö City Council, Sweden
The CeLeKT group at Linnaeus University (LNU), Sweden
Results
LNU sees benefits from the possibility of connecting their research to activities and challenges in the local municipality level, nationally as well as internationally, e.g, interesting research problems, which the municipalities cannot solve themselves, can be identified and new and further research can be initiated at the universities (at bachelor, master or PhD levels).
Also, by participating in this project Professor Milrad can contribute to strengthening the relations between his faculty and their colleagues at the North West University in Potchefstroom, SA. LNU’s efforts are aligned with a long term strategy aiming to promote and create sustainable forms of cooperation between the university, the municipality, the local government and companies, both within each city as well as between the two countries.
As a more long-term and sustainable result, Professor Milrad believes that this project may be able to generate interesting opportunities for Linnaeus University to apply for research funds within a few years. The funding would aim to implement the identified measures needed in order to develop some of the ideas and concepts that will be envisioned in both Potchefstroom and Växjö.
Methodology
Next steps
Publications
