Emerging Librarians Forum
Objectives
- Provide comprehensive training in library science, including cataloging, classification, information management, and digital librarianship.
- Develop essential soft skills such as communication, customer service, teamwork, and leadership for practical library work.
- Equip trainees with modern ICT skills relevant to library operations, including database management, digital archiving, and use of library management systems.
- Prepare young librarians to support users in navigating digital information and online resources responsibly.
- Train librarians to design and implement literacy-enhancement programs, reading clubs, and community outreach activities.
- Promote libraries as inclusive, safe, and vibrant spaces for learning, creativity, and community development.
- Cultivate strong ethical values, professionalism, respect for intellectual freedom, and dedication to serving diverse user needs.
- Encourage adherence to national and international library standards and best practices.
- Create opportunities for employment, internships, and mentorship with experienced librarians and library institutions.
- Build a network of young, skilled, and motivated library professionals.
- Promote innovation in library services by exposing participants to new technologies, trends, and emerging information practices.
- Encourage ongoing learning, research, and professional development among young librarians.
Kodjo Atiso
Kodjo Atiso is the Librarian for Africana, Global, and International Studies at the University of Kansas (KU). He has extensive experience in research, academic libraries, and teaching. He moved to Lawrence from Ghana, where he served as University Librarian (Dean of Libraries) at Cape Coast Technical University.
He earned a BA and MA from the University of Ghana, an LLB from the University of London (UK), and a PhD from the University of Missouri–Columbia. Having worked at the highest administrative levels of higher education, Kodjo has extensive experience in university governance, serving in senior management roles in Ghana and contributing to institutional policy development, including policies related to education and faculty rights.
He founded the Emerging Librarians Forum to address training gaps for young library professionals across Africa. The Forum now serves participants throughout the continent and has recently expanded internationally. Feedback from members indicates that the training sessions are helping participants strengthen their knowledge and improve library services in their communities.
Angelina Amankwah
Angelina Amankwah is an information professional with a passion for client support services. She holds an MPhil in Information Studies from the University of Ghana and currently serves as a Senior Library Assistant at the University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (USTED), formerly known as AAMUSTED, in Mampong, Ashanti Region, Ghana.
She also serves as Secretary of the Emerging Librarians Forum and is the founder of Library Luminance, a strategic initiative that advocates for libraries and librarianship. In addition, she is the Regional Secretary of the Ghana Library Association's Ashanti Regional Chapter. At USTED, she serves as Faculty Librarian for the Faculty of Education and General Studies and as Liaison Librarian for colleges affiliated with the university.
