Contextualizes the historical evolution of modern librarianship in East Asia, encompassing the sub-regions of North-East and South-East Asia, in the societies in which it emerged. Employs the theory of cultural hegemony, conceptualized by Antonio Gramsci (1891{\textendash}1937), as the foundation for viewing that evolution of East Asian librarianship. Discusses external influences, the role of human agency and technical and cultural heritage. A stated aim of the article is to reveal to practising and aspiring librarians, especially in East Asia, the cultural determinants of their professional history and help them gain a better understanding of the complex roots in the development of libraries globally.
}, year = {2008}, journal = {Library History}, volume = {24}, pages = {64-77}, note = {Includes sections devoted to libraries and librarianship in: Malaysia, Singapore, Japan and China.\
}, language = {English}, }