Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer among the Lushai Tribe

Public Libraries’ Role in Fulfilling IFLA Recommendations

Abstract

This study looks at how Indigenous Knowledge (IK) is communicated within the Lushai tribe of Mizoram, the obstacles that hinder its effective transfer, and the role of public libraries in preserving and sharing IK. A descriptive survey method was used, with a bilingual semi-structured questionnaire distributed among 300 participants, consisting of both library users and librarians from five different public libraries. The responses were analyzed using SPSS. Our study found that modern influence and changes in lifestyle pose growing challenges for the transfer of IK. Results also show that storytelling and community gatherings are the most common methods of sharing IK. In these selected public libraries, manuscripts and documents are the main sources of preserving IK, while oral traditions are less represented. The public libraries of Mizoram face some major issues like lack of funding, poor storage facilities, and insufficient staff training. Still, some libraries have made active efforts to promote IK by setting up dedicated sections for IK preservation, organizing events, and collaborating with local communities. This study highlights the crucial role of libraries in associating traditional and modern knowledge systems and recommends enhanced infrastructure and policy frameworks to preserve cultural heritage.