ABSTRACT
The authors provide a historical overview of Senegalese libraries, archives, and museums, outlining patterns and trends from the French colonial period to the present. Topics covered include: national, public, academic, special, and school libraries as well as the National Archives of Senegal, regional archives, and major museums. The legal framework for these institutions is detailed. However, although comprehensive and well thought out library legislation was enacted in the 1970s, realization of the plans for a national library, and for a network of public libraries has been stalled due to the lack of funding. The authors also discuss the role of professional associations and the development and professional education in these three fields.
