The Approach to the Institution of Library in Information Society Policy of Turkey

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the approach taken by the State regarding “Library as an Institution” in determining the Information Society Policy of Turkey. Within this framework, first the theoretical aspects of the issue are explained, then strategy documents, published by the State Planning Organization since 2003, were examined, namely “e-Turkey Enterprise Action Plan-2002”; “e-Transition Turkey Project Short-Term Action Plan (2003-2004)”; e-Transition Turkey Project 2005 Action Plan”; “Information Society Strategy (2006-2010)”; “Information Society Strategy Action Plan (2006-2010)”.

As a result of the research done, it was determined that the “Library” was not assessed to be a basic component in determining the Information Society Policy of Turkey; there was no integrated approach in considering this institution as being effective as a social, cultural and educational factor in the national policy strategy. The solution to this problem in terms of libraries, as suggested, is that librarians should offer objective and methodical approaches to this critical issue and they should actively and constantly participate in the creation-application processes in regard to the Information Society Policy in Turkey.