A coalition of organisations representing libraries and technologists has called on governments and decision-makers to ensure that every community is connected, and, through libraries, has access to the content and skills needed to enjoy the benefits that the internet can bring. Read More
IFLA is proud to sign up to two documents addressing a key issue of our time – the digital divide. The first calls on governments to act to support investment in wider connectivity and the libraries that help users make the most of it. The second represents a pledge to do all in our power to promote digital inclusion, and is open to wider signatures. Read More
Information technology continues to have a fundamental impact on the library sector; and libraries’, library users’ and policy-makers’ expectations of library services are evolving alongside technological developments and changing community needs. To make sure libraries are able to deliver on these tasks, suitable and fit-for-purpose library ICT infrastructure equipment and skills are crucial. The new IFLA briefing offers an overview of common recurring themes in relevant literature and key considerations for assessing library ‘tech readiness’. Read More
From public internet access facilities to digital collections, from online learning to makerspaces – the ICT-enabled roles and services libraries take on require a fit-for-purpose ICT infrastructure, equipment, staff digital skills, and more. Drawing on the available literature on library technology planning, evaluation and assessment… Read More
Over the last few decades, libraries have been exploring various ways to assess and demonstrate their value and contribution to users and societies at large. Return on Investment is a commonly used method to demonstrate value - and a new publication by IFLA offers an overview of ROI studies in varous library sectors over the last 10 years. Read More
IFLA shared concerns, and identified challenges and opportunities relating to the protection of human rights during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More
Ensuring equitable access to information and knowledge lies at the heart of the library mission. As part of this goal, many libraries offer public internet access and workstations. And yet, there are still areas where many people do not have an opportunity to get online. Community… Read More
Ensuring equitable access to information and knowledge lies at the heart of the library mission. As part of this goal, many libraries offer public internet access and workstations. And yet, there are still areas where many people do not have an opportunity to get online. Community networks - local community-led initiatives to build and maintain a telecommunications infrastructure – are emerging as an alternative model to help connect the unconnected. How do such Community Network projects relate to libraries’ mission, what can libraries do to support these initiatives? Read More
Libraries work to protect the online safety and wellbeing of their patrons and communities by promoting digital literacy and offering inclusive ICT skills training and assistance. On Safer Internet Day 2020, libraries in many countries are joining the campaign to raise awareness and help children and young people develop the skills for safe and responsible Internet use. Read More
Just endorsed by the Professional Committee: Guidelines on Public Internet Access in Libraries and Guidelines for Setting Up a Digital Unification Project Read More