LIASA was formed in 1997 in response to the need to unify a historically divided library profession that was also affected by the former apartheid policies of South Africa.
when all types of libraries across the country use it as an opportunity to market their services to their users, the broader community, civil society and decision makers.
It is hoped that these efforts would contribute to the understanding of the important role that libraries play in a democratic society, advancing literacy, making the basic human right of freedom of access to information a reality, and inculcating tolerance and respect among all South Africans.
During this period LIASA aims to make all South Africans aware that libraries contribute to nation building and improve the quality of life of all who use them.
This week is now strongly supported by the Department of Arts and Culture who oversee the development of public and community libraries in all nine provinces.
LIASA strongly believes that through such campaigns, libraries may be taken more seriously and accorded its rightful role in partnering education and development in South Africa Moerat, N. 2003.