Access to information

Access to Information

Access to information is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of democratic governance, education, research, and socio-economic development. Libraries and information centres play a critical role in enabling individuals and communities to discover, use, and benefit from information in all its forms.

The Uganda Library and Information Association (ULIA) promotes equitable, inclusive, and sustainable access to information for all people, regardless of location, ability, or socio-economic status.

 

2. Right to Access Information

Information as a Human Right

Access to information empowers citizens to make informed decisions, participate in governance, and improve their livelihoods. ULIA supports national and international frameworks that recognize access to information as a fundamental right.

This includes:

  • Transparency and accountability in public institutions
  • Freedom of information and expression
  • Ethical information use and privacy protection

 

3. Libraries as Access Points

Libraries at the Centre of Information Access

Libraries serve as trusted gateways to information by providing:

  • Free and equitable access to knowledge resources
  • Safe and inclusive learning spaces
  • Professional guidance from trained information specialists
  • Access to print, digital, and online resources

ULIA supports libraries of all types—academic, public, school, health, special, and community libraries—in strengthening access to information services.

 

4. Digital Access and Inclusion

Bridging the Digital Divide

Digital technologies have expanded access to information but have also created new inequalities. ULIA promotes digital inclusion by advocating for:

  • Affordable and reliable internet access
  • Digital literacy and information literacy skills
  • Assistive technologies for persons with disabilities
  • Access to electronic resources and online platforms

 

5. Open Access and Open Knowledge

Promoting Knowledge Without Barriers

ULIA supports open access to scholarly and educational resources to enhance learning, research, and innovation. This includes:

  • Institutional repositories
  • Open educational resources (OERs)
  • Open research data
  • Responsible use of open licenses

ULIA encourages balanced approaches that respect copyright, intellectual property, and cultural sensitivity.

 

6. Barriers to Information Access

Challenges Affecting Access

ULIA recognizes several barriers that limit access to information, including:

  • Limited infrastructure and connectivity
  • Cost of information resources
  • Language and literacy challenges
  • Physical and digital accessibility barriers
  • Restrictive legal or policy environments

ULIA works with stakeholders to identify and address these challenges.

 

7. ULIA’s Role and Advocacy

Championing Equitable Access

ULIA advances access to information through:

  • Advocacy for inclusive information policies
  • Capacity building for information professionals
  • Public awareness and community engagement
  • Collaboration with government, institutions, and civil society

 

8. Resources and Tools

Supporting Information Access Practice

ULIA provides and promotes access to:

  • Information literacy guidelines
  • Open access and copyright resources
  • Digital inclusion tools
  • Policy briefs and advocacy materials