Assessing the Capacity of Public and School Libraries toward the Attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 4

The objective of this study is to investigate the capacity of public and school libraries towards the achievement of SDG4. Using data collected from school and public library staff, head teachers and education officers in Zanzibar, the study examined the level of awareness of SDG4 among library staff, library human and physical resources capacity and the effectiveness of library programs in promoting lifelong learning. The study used a cross-sectional design, whereas a mixed approach through a convergence method was used to collect, analyze and interpret data. A non-probability sampling under purposive sampling techniques was applied to select respondents for this study. Primary data was collected through a survey method using a structured standardized questionnaire, face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions. A total of 100 library staff filled out questionnaires. Interviews were conducted with 42 respondents while 18 were involved in focus group discussions. The study revealed that public and school libraries provided common traditional services like book circulation and reference services, but their contribution did not correlate with the efforts needed to promote lifelong learning in the modern era. The libraries were faced with several challenges including inadequate budget and a lack of policy and strategies for the implementation of lifelong learning targets. The study recommends that the education authorities should address and prioritize the agenda of lifelong learning by improving the capacity of public and school libraries, while a national-wide library campaign toward the promotion of lifelong learning should be introduced with the involvement of public and school libraries. © 2023 The Author(s). Published with license by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.