Experiences in Developing and Delivering Lifelong Learning Programmes for Singaporeans(Lifelong and Continuing Education in Libraries)

Abstract

Singapore has no natural resources, its only resource being its population of about 4 million people. The government therefore invests heavily in constantly training and re-training its workers. This implies that Singaporeans have to be ready to unlearn and relearn to stay relevant in the knowledge-based economy. The National Library Board (NLB), Singapore's mission is to expand the learning capacity of the nation so as to enhance national competitiveness and to promote a gracious society. By developing a relevant and responsive library system, which caters to the needs of its people, the NLB helps in creating enlightened individuals who can better position themselves to realize their full potential. Within this context, the NLB has embraced the promotion of lifelong learning as one of its focus to make libraries and information accessible to all. Participants will be given insights into how NLB has developed and transformed public libraries in Singapore to become pulsating cosmopolitan centers for lifelong learning and interaction. The author shares NLB's holistic lifelong learning framework which uses its network of lifestyle libraries as delivery channel for lifelong learning. The presenter will explain how NLB has prototyped, developed and delivered a suite of products and services that reach out to the masses, to support their learning journey. Case studies of lifelong learning initiatives will be expounded upon. NLB has implemented an information literacy programme to teach Singaporeans to become more info-savvy. This programme reaches out to students, working adults and also senior citizens. The setting up of the One Learning Place, a learning center, conveniently located within the library will highlight the importance of building partnerships in lifelong learning. NLB has also offered its users a total library experience through successful thematic programming and the creation of niche libraries that reach out to Singapore's multicultural and heterogeneous communities. NLB's conduit for lifelong learning is reflected in its virtual environment which uses IT as an enabler to provide seamless access to information 24/7/365 for Singaporeans at home, work and at play. The presenter will also share how NLB is proactively leveraging on an e-environment to offer lifelong learning opportunities. As a knowledge-based society, Singapore needs to sustain lifelong learning and the role of the library as a democratic 'people's university' becomes critical as a partner in learning.