About Us
The SLA is the main recognized parasol body representing libraries and information services in the country
Somali Library Association
Championing the Professional Interest of Librarians & Information Professionals
The Somali Library Association (SLA), established in 2021 and headquartered in Mogadishu, is the first professional organization of its kind in Somalia, dedicated to revitalizing and strengthening the library and information services sector nationwide.
Before the civil war in 1990, libraries were integral to Somalia’s educational and cultural landscape, but the conflict left many facilities destroyed and collections disorganized, lacking essential management skills and modern practices.
Recognizing the vital role libraries can play in rebuilding Somali society, the SLA was then established to coordinate efforts to restore a culture of reading, learning, and knowledge-sharing, which includes the revitalization of the National Library of Somalia, thereby empowering citizens and contributing to the country’s educational, research, and community development goals.
| OUR VISION
To be the leading representative body for librarians and libraries in Somalia, promoting the development of the library and information sector to support education, research, and community empowerment.
| OUR MISSION
The Somali Library Association is dedicated to advancing the library and information sector in Somalia through advocacy, professional development, infrastructure modernization, information literacy promotion, and collaboration with Somali librarians globally.
The AIMS of the Somali Library Association are:
- To restore and promote the elapsed culture of reading, learning, and knowledge-sharing, which includes the revitalization of the National Library of Somalia.
- To advocate the establishment of library and information science school that produces skilled professionals capable of addressing the country’s information needs.
- To assist the education sector in providing high-quality educational resources and services to enhance learning outcomes.
- To advance the culture of continuous leaning and professional development for our members
Our Objectives
- To advocate for the recognition and support of librarians and libraries across Somalia.
- To provide professional development and training opportunities for the available librarians / information professionals or library staffs
- To collaborate with stakeholders to rebuild and modernize library infrastructure and services, including the rehabilitation of the National Library of Somalia.
- To promote reading, information literacy, and the role of libraries in community development.
- To bring Somali librarians together, including those in the diaspora to leverage their expertise and support the development of the library sector in Somalia.
Partner with us for your library needs
Our Professional Librarians are always ready to work with you.
Individuals and Organisations looking for guidance and assistance for their library development projects and programmes.