Setting up a Library: International Library
This guide will provide an overview of resources common to all types of libraries, along with some references for some specific situations.
General International Library Resources
The American Library Association can provide guidance and information on your project in general terms, and in the American context. It is imperative to work with the governmental agencies and main library organizations of the designated country for any available assistance, both administrative and financial. The websites listed below can help you find the library-related resources of the designated country.
- List of Library Associations Around the WorldA Project of the IFLA Management of Library Associations Section, coordinated by the American Library Association, International Relations Office
- List of National and State LibrariesWikipedia's list of national libraries.
UNESCO Guide on How to Start and Run a Basic Library
Libraries For All, published jointly by UNESCO and the Peace Corps, provides practical advice on how to start basic library services.
Libraries For All!: How to Start and Run a Basic Library by Publication Date: 2004
- Libraries For All!: How to Start and Run a Basic Library [PDF]Wendell, Laura. Paris: UNESCO, 1998.
92 page PDF.
This book is for community leaders, librarians, library committees, volunteers, aid workers and others who are interested in the practical aspect of starting and maintaining a successful library.
Building International Libraries
- International Book Donation ProgramsInformation about how to donate books to needy libraries. Also includes resources for those seeking donations.
- IFLA Public Library Service GuidelinesThe public library is the prime community access point designed to respond to a multitude of ever-changing information needs. These guidelines are framed to provide assistance to library and information professionals in most situations. They assist to better develop effective services, relevant collections, and accessible formats within the context and requirements of the local community.
International Library Activities at ALA
- International Relations Office of the American Library AssociationThe mission of the International Relations Office (IRO) is to increase ALA's presence in the global library community, to implement ALA policies concerning international librarianship, to promote greater understanding of international librarianship and international library issues within ALA, and to manage international library activities on behalf of the ALA.
- International Relations Round Table (IRRT) of the American Library AssociationThe IRRT promotes interest in library issues and librarianship worldwide
- IRRT International Sustainable Library Development Interest GroupThe ISLD serves as a clearinghouse of sustainable community-based library projects in developing areas of the world. This group mobilizes the power of ALA librarians to raise awareness of and make significant contributions to international library development. Librarians in developing countries can tap into resources for training and projects in their libraries.