Libraries: tools for education and development in post-conflict Sierra Leone

Purpose - To describe the state of the library system in Sierra Leone in the recent period after the civil war, and its part in post-conflict reconstruction. Design/methodology/approach - A descriptive account with some historical, social and geographical contextual information. Findings - The paper demonstrates how libraries have an essential role to play in the recreation of a nation's civil fabric following a period of destruction and social disintegration. Research limitations/implications - This account of library reconstruction during a period of post-conflict stability describes a situation, the future development of which is dependent on a number of external variables. It is difficult to predict how those factors will in fact play out, but there is reason for cautious optimism. Practical implications - This paper describes the pragmatic steps and policy commitments needed to restore library services in a period following a breakdown in civil order. Originality/value - The paper gives an important insight into library work in a difficult and traumatic setting and provides ample evidence of how librarianship has an invaluable contribution to make in such environments.