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How to Access Literature in Developing Countries

"Developing country" is a broad term with no set definition, but according to the International Monetary Fund, countries such as China, Mexico and Argentina qualify. Access to literature will vary from country to country, and will depend on the practices and laws of those countries. Generally, however, literature will be accessible from a number of different sources for either purchase or rental, and will not be subject to overly large amounts of censorship or state control.

Things You'll Need

Internet access
Transportation

Instructions

- 1
  Seek out local libraries and other lending institutions in your area where you can borrow books. Check in phone books, with locals or with government offices as to where libraries might be located. Keep in mind that many libraries require proof of a permanent address to grant borrowing privileges, so if you are a temporary resident only, borrowing from a library might not be an option.
- 2
  Use the Internet to read books online. Most developing countries have Internet access, which can be used via a private computer or through Internet cafes. Websites such as Google Books and Project Gutenberg provide access to the full text of books that have expired copyrights.
- 3
  Find local bookstores and booksellers from which to purchase literature. If you are able to read the language of the developing country you are in, a local bookstore would be a good option to find literature written in the language of the developing country and about issues that affect that country. Local people, phone books and Internet searches are all good ways to locate bookstores in developing countries.
- 4
  Order books online that you cannot find locally, or if it is more convenient for you to order online. Amazon, for example, ships to 60 different countries in Africa as of June 2011, many of which are listed as developing countries by the IMF.

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