From Church Shelves to Global Stages: Dr. A.J. Alonge Recognised as Librarian of the Month by Librarian Spotlight Africa

In a remarkable celebration of excellence in librarianship, Dr. A.J. Alonge has been honored as the Librarian of the Month by Librarian Spotlight Africa. This recognition not only highlights Dr. Alonge’s significant contributions to the field of library and information science but also underscores the transformative role that librarians play in communities around the world.

A Journey Rooted in Community

Dr. Alonge’s journey began in humble settings, where he first engaged with books and knowledge within church libraries. His early experiences instilled a deep appreciation for the power of information and its ability to uplift communities. Over the years, he has transitioned from local church shelves to global stages, advocating for access to information and the importance of libraries in education and community development.

Contributions to Librarianship

Dr. Alonge’s work exemplifies the evolving role of librarians in the digital age. His initiatives have focused on:

• Promoting Literacy: Dr. Alonge has been instrumental in various literacy programs that aim to enhance reading skills among underserved populations.
• Advocating for Open Access: He has championed the cause of open educational resources, ensuring that knowledge is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.
• Building Partnerships: Collaborating with local and international organizations, Dr. Alonge has worked to improve library services and resources, making a significant impact on educational equity.

The Significance of the Award

Being named Librarian of the Month is not just a personal accolade for Dr. Alonge; it serves as a platform to advocate for the critical role of libraries in society. This recognition shines a light on the importance of librarianship in fostering education, promoting access to information, and supporting community development initiatives.

Looking Ahead

As Dr. Alonge continues his work, he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of librarians and advocating for the visibility of libraries in a rapidly changing world. His journey from church shelves to global stages is a testament to the profound impact that dedicated librarians can have on their communities and beyond.

In conclusion, Dr. A.J. Alonge’s recognition as Librarian of the Month by Librarian Spotlight Africa is a celebration of his dedication and contributions to the field. It serves as an inspiration for all librarians to strive for excellence and to continue making meaningful contributions to society.

Learn more:

1. – YouTube
2. – YouTube
3. My Reflections on Being Recognized as Librarian of the Month by Librarian Spotlight Africa – 21st Century Information and Libraries Network – INFOLIBNET

Mulugeta Woldetsadik

MULUGETA WOLDETSADIK, Librarian/Information Professional at Hawassa University | Works in Collaboration with Global Library Support Organizations | Advocate for Digital Literacy, Community Empowerment & Access to Scientific Knowledge Mulugeta Woldetsadik, a seasoned Ethiopian librarian with 30+ years of experience, is the Outreach Librarian at Hawassa University. He coordinates impactful library partnership projects with Book Aid International (BAI), Books for Africa (BFA), and the International Law Book Facility (ILBF) to expand access to educational resources in Ethiopia's Sidama region and beyond. Founder of 21st Century INFOLIBNET, now a team-based network, he advocates for librarianship, digital transformation, and community empowerment. A Coordinator for Partnerships and Community Engagement at Librarian Spotlight Africa and August 2024’s Librarian of the Month, Mulugeta is dedicated to advancing literacy and the transformative power of books and libraries.