May June Portfolio 2026
Unique number:
Due date: 5 June 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 The role of libraries and information centres in promoting equal access to
information in society
Libraries and information centres play an important role in society because they help
different people reach information that they may not easily find on their own. A library is not
only a building with books, because it is also a managed service that brings people,
information, technology and physical resources together for public use. The study guide
shows that libraries and information centres use resources such as people, capital, expertise
and information to work towards their vision, mission and objectives (Mnkeni-Saurombe,
2012:11). This means that equal access depends on how well these resources are managed
so that users from different backgrounds can receive useful information, guidance and
support.
, QUESTION 1
1.1 The role of libraries and information centres in promoting equal access to
information in society
Libraries and information centres play an important role in society because they help
different people reach information that they may not easily find on their own. A library
is not only a building with books, because it is also a managed service that brings
people, information, technology and physical resources together for public use. The
study guide shows that libraries and information centres use resources such as
people, capital, expertise and information to work towards their vision, mission and
objectives (Mnkeni-Saurombe, 2012:11). This means that equal access depends on
how well these resources are managed so that users from different backgrounds can
receive useful information, guidance and support.
Libraries also promote equal access by responding to the real needs of the
communities they serve. In South Africa, communities are shaped by different
languages, cultures, education levels and social conditions, so library managers
must understand these differences when planning services (Mnkeni-Saurombe,
2012:12). A public library, for example, should not only serve people who already
know how to search for information, but should also help school learners,
unemployed people, older users and people who need basic digital support. In this
way, the library becomes a space where information is not reserved only for people
with money, devices or strong research skills.
Technology also affects equal access because digital information is now a major part
of learning and daily life. The study guide notes that information and communication
technology can improve library services, although internet access can still be a
challenge for some libraries (Mnkeni-Saurombe, 2012:11). For this reason, libraries
can reduce unfairness by giving users access to computers, online sources,
electronic records and staff who can explain how to use these tools. This is
especially important for users who cannot afford data, textbooks or private internet at
home.