LIASA represents and promotes the development and image of SA libraries and information services

LIASA is a professional organisation that strives to unite, develop and empower all institutions and people in the library and information field. It further provides dynamic leadership in transforming, developing and sustaining Library and Information Services (LIS) for all people in South Africa.

The association actively advocates and supports the provision of efficient, user-oriented and excellent LIS and aspires to provide all communities in South Africa with equitable access to information. The association represents the interests of, and seeks to promote the welfare and development of, library and information workers and agencies.

LIASA also represents the interests of and promotes the development and image of the library and information profession in South Africa – at local, provincial and national level to learners, general public, government and other agencies.

Furthermore, LIASA represents the South African LIS sector at international level. South Africa’s transition to democracy has brought with it its own set of challenges including that of access to information – an essential pillar in upholding a democracy.

The country and its citizens are reliant on every possible institution to contribute to the growth of its democracy.

The growth and sustainability of a democracy is dependent on equitable access to information and knowledge, which is the core business of the library and information sector. LIASA, representing the interests of the library and information sector, is one of those institutions that must be tagged as a significant contributor to the growth and development of South Africa.

Professional associations and societies are influential organisations representing the voice of the professional community, in addressing issues relating to their welfare, status, working conditions, physical facilities, education and training including the research and development activities. The core purposes of associations have always been to serve the needs and to protect the interests of the community.