The world’s documentary heritage is of global importance and responsibility to all, and should be fully preserved and protected for all… It should be permanently accessible and re-usable by all without hindrance. (UNESCO, 2015) 

As memory institutions, libraries help to preserve and connect their communities to cultural heritage, allowing for the sharing of knowledge for greater understanding and dialogue. As multicultural hubs, they promote peace and respect for freedom, democracy, human rights, and dignity.

IFLA works both within our organisation and with partners to build capacity across the global library field to preserve and provide access to cultural heritage. 

IFLA and UNESCO

Learn more about how IFLA partners with UNESCO on culture and beyond. 

2015 Recommendation Checklist 

Use this checklist to guide a self-assessment on implementation of the UNESCO Recommendation concerning the preservation of, and access to, documentary heritage including in digital form. 

Preservation and Access Tools

See IFLA Standards and Guidelines in the areas of preservation and access to cultural heritage.