Congress theme: “Future Libraries: Infinite Possibilities”

Libraries and Development in Asia — Beyond Access

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الموعد

20 اغسطس, 13:45-14:45

المكان

Summit 1

Development demands access to information and technology, support to use it, and physical spaces to connect with others. At a time of tight budgets, investing in existing trusted local institutions is efficient and smart. More than 230,000 public libraries — 73% of the world’s total — are located in developing and transitioning countries. With members around the world, Beyond Access is movement of people and organizations committed to the idea that modern public libraries help advance economic and social development goals.

Beyond AccessAt WLIC 2013, the joint Beyond Access–IFLA session will explore how public libraries power development in Asia. Drawing examples from Bhutan, Nepal and the Philippines, this session will offer new ideas for public library services and partnerships with a particular focus on the role of technology. It will also look at the role library associations have in promoting and supporting the new role and image of public libraries in Asia. What unique challenges do libraries face in the region and what are solutions that have worked?

The drive towards an information society means the future of public libraries is now, and this session will offer engaging ideas that should inspire participants to get involved and take action.

Fiona Bradley, IFLA Manager of Member Services and Development and Ari Katz, Deputy Director for Technology and Civil Society at IREX, will moderate.

Beyond Access is an initiative of the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX), IFLA, Electronic Information for Libraries (EIFL), Makaia, Facilitating Change, Development Gateway, The Asia Foundation, Technology & Social Change Group (TASCHA), the Riecken Foundation, and READ Global, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

See www.beyondaccess.net for more information.