LIBRARY AND ARCHIVE CENTER, IOS – Institute of Oromo Studies (IOS)

Our society is undergoing a process of dynamic and rapid changes, moving toward an information, knowledge, and network society, or the informational mode of development. Information and knowledge are distinguishing features of a modern society, and the driving force of this change is the ever-increasing use of information and communication technologies (ICT). The translation of information into knowledge and ideas lies at the very foundation of libraries. It is recognized that a library is not just a place where information is gathered and accessed, but also where ideas are formed, inspired, and shared through innovative and engaging physical and digital spaces.

The digital production and management of information is one of the core areas of the library. Through digitization and the development of new tools and systems for information discovery, management, and analysis, insinuate libraries are poised to play a pivotal role in the production of knowledge as both publishers and disseminators of knowledge. The library is contributing and will continue to contribute to the internationalization of research by building and integrating access to global resources.

The first role of the Institute of Oromo Studies Library and Archive (IOSLA) is to collect the most important works in the country and abroad. IOSLAA aims to provide innovative and relevant services to support Oromo studies. This will be achieved through the provision of excellent staff, services, collections, and spaces, and a focus on the deep understanding of communities’ needs through collaboration and partnership. The following is the main strategic plan of the IOSLAA.

Strategic Theme 1: Collecting documents related to Oromo vigorous and create quality collections

Strategic Theme 2: Giving quality services to its patrons by using robust technology

Strategic Theme 3: Excellence in research and development

Strategic Theme 4: Internationalization and collaboration

In an attempt to achieve the objectives of the Institute, the IOSLAA sets the following vision and missions.

Vision

Creating a number one choice Library and Archive where massive and quality collections of Oromoo-related documents are available and readily accessible.

Mission

Establishing a model research library that is supported by robust technologies
Collecting and organizing published and unpublished documents on Oromo-related issues such as culture, history, language, etc…
The IOS Library and Archive aims to provide strong information resources that can be useful to create new knowledge and ideas.
Providing access of both physical and digital formats of collections
Building strong and unique specialized collections to attract world-class scholars
Launching an institutional repository to preserve and disseminate research output, conferences, seminars, workshops, etc..
Providing electronic databases
Training users and staff to develop their information exploitation skills for efficient and effective utilization of reliable information resources.
Establishing audio visual center