The role of public libraries in the expansion of literacy and lifelong learning in Sri Lanka

This paper defines literacy and lifelong learning and their significance to the development of a country. It specifies the recent education policy reforms in Sri Lanka which emphasise the expansion of literacy and lifelong learning. It then describes the role of the public libraries in this task and discusses the status of the Sri Lankan public libraries. Gives reasons for the unresponsiveness of public libraries to the changing educational requirements. Finally, the paper gives some recommendations which will help to develop the present condition of public libraries.