Abstract |
Since 1975 the whole world, both eastern and western, has gradually become an information society. Most scholars nowadays consider information as one of the resources of a nation. Information, together with energy and matter, are the three basic factors of determining the quality of our life. As far as libraries are concerned, as their users have been increasing needs for life and knowledge extensively and profoundly, to establish a national policy for library and information services is very important. This policy should view the information resources within a nation as a whole that combines the counsel from government agencies and private enterprises as well as getting legal and financial support in order to extend, deepen current services and prevent any repeat or waste of services. This article compares the national policy for library and information services in Malaysia with the New Direction for Library Development in 21st Century, which is established by Chinese Library Association, in expectation of understanding the establishing processes, basic principles and objectives, subjects covered, and the contents of both policies.
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