The social responsibility of libraries is recently becoming a focus of attention. This focus is reflected in the formation of the new IFLA Social Responsibilities Discussion Group which has as part of its action plan to develop a concept paper addressing the gap between the library rich and poor. Libraries have traditionally been seen as depots for the acquiring and housing of collections which they make accessible to interested people. There are many library practitioners now who feel there is a growing need for libraries to be more involved with the needs of their communities.
Libraries are in a very good position to find out the needs of communities.
Formal surveys can be conducted and informal information can be gathered through daily conversation and dialogue. Literacy Illiteracy amongst adults is a global problem and can no doubt take its place on a list of social responsibilities. Illiterate people do not necessarily see themselves as being disadvantaged. They have a lot of knowledge about life and have adjusted to many of the pitfalls of their situation. Sometimes many complex processes are put in place to assist them in circumventing the need for literacy.