Newsroom

2024 Development and Access to Information (DA2I) Report launched

IFLA, working with the Technology and Social Change Group at the University of Washington, and with support from Stichting IFLA Global Libraries (SIGL) today launches the 2024 Development and Access to Information Report. This highlights uneven progress in delivering meaningful access, with advances in connectivity not matched by the spread of rights, equity and skills. In parallel, we need both better adapted laws, and investment in libraries to turn this access into success in delivering on the SDGs.

Promoting policy effectiveness and innovation through knowledge management: IFLA at the LAC SDG Forum

IFLA representatives were active at the 7th meeting of the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean on Sustainable Development, engaging delegates, strengthening networks, and speaking up about the importance of knowledge and information for development. 

IFLA Connects with Members in Côte d’Ivoire and Advances Civil Society Interest in a Culture-Specific Goal

IFLA Headquarters joined partners from UNESCO representing civil society and beyond at the 16th International Forum of NGOs in Official Partnership with UNESCO. This was held in person from 15‐16 April 2024 in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire) with the theme, “Sustainable Cultures”.

Who is funding library projects? New open data resource

In addition to core funding received from host institutions, governments or others, libraries represent great partners for others who share our commitment to supporting sustainable development. The results of a project made possible by Stichting IFLA Global Libraries, and carried out by The Doyenne Project, give an idea of who has a track-record of supporting libraries among private donors and public development agencies.

Launch of 'Everywhere All the Time' - a digital literacy intervention that fosters critical conversations about technology and AI

With a growing generation of people relying on the internet for learning, entertainment and socializing, it's crucial to cultivate their capacity to ask critical questions about how technology impacts their lives, their communities and the planet. But how can educators guide teens to understand and navigate the digital world confidently? “Everywhere, All the Time” is a creative and playful digital literacy intervention, aiming to do just that.

Libraries at the heart of a UNESCO Learning City: An interview with the city of São Filipe, Cabo Verde

Local connections, internationally: IFLA at the United Cities and Local Government Retreat

IFLA addressed mayors and other local leaders at the United Cities and Local Government retreat, highlighting in particular the power of culture to deliver development, and the need to mobilise recognition of this at the global level.

Launch of Internet Manifesto open working document & final online consultations 🗣

Provide your comments via the open working document before April 3, join an online consultation session or sign up to conduct a thematic workshop!

IFLA Celebrates the New UNESCO Framework for Culture and Arts Education as a Win for Library Advocacy

IFLA joins Culture2030Goal colleagues in calling for culture to feature in the Pact for the Future

IFLA was proud to join colleagues in the Culture2030Goal campaign in submitting proposals for improving the zero draft for the Pact for the Future, with a view to ensuring that it seizes the opportunity to mobilise culture to deliver on the United Nations' goals.

Progress made, progress needed in the zero draft of the Pact for the Future

We are a key step closer to the UN Summit of the Future, with the publication of a zero draft of the Pact for the Future. This article gives an idea of key features of this text, and links to IFLA's own responses, highlighting the importance of culture and knowledge.

How to Get Involved with Climate Empowerment in 2024

High-Impact Initiatives for the Sustainable Development Goals: Opportunities for Libraries

In September, the UN announced 12 High-Impact Initiatives as a package intended to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These offer a variety of opportunities to highlight the work of libraries, and seek recognition and support, at national and global levels.

IFLA contributes at Summit of the Future stakeholder meeting

Preparations for the United Nations' Summit of the Future are now well underway, with the possibilities to secure helpful decisions and references for libraries growing clearer. Find out more in our new brief, and get involved in shaping the key output document - the Pact for the Future!

Libraries Recognised among Essential Partners in Historic Declaration on Culture-based Climate Action

Building momentum towards a culture goal - IFLA at the UCLG Culture Summit 2023

Local governments are not just a key stakeholder for many libraries, but also a key ally in making the case for a stronger recognition of the role of culture, cultural institutions and cultural actors in advancing sustainable development. We were therefore very happy to join United Cities and Local Governments' Culture Summit, focused on building recognition of this role, and to sign a memorandum of understanding allowing us to take this work further. 

Libraries: a key infrastructure for adult learning and education

IFLA participated at the 2023 World Assembly on Adult Education, celebrating the 50th Anniversary of our sister organisation, the International Council for Adult Education. Engaging with professionals and activists from around the world, we underlined the ability and readiness of libraries to realise their potential to make a reality of learning for all.

Libraries as Pillars of Information Integrity: Event Report Released

The world is waking up to the importance of information integrity as a precondition for success in delivering the Sustainable Development Goals. Fortunately, libraries have long not just understood the need for reliable, verifiable and accurate information, but have delivered it. They can contribute much to any future policy framework here.

Updates from COP28: Get involved in library climate advocacy

IFLA is excited to invite colleagues from the library and museum fields, as well as from the Permanent Delegation of the UAE to UNESCO, to join us in a discussion at the Greening Education Hub. We will explore how cultural actors help implement lifelong greening community strategies, and integrate these perspectives into the work programme of the UNESCO Greening Education Partnership.

COP28 Call to Action: Culture at the Heart of Climate Action

As a founding member of the Climate Heritage Network, IFLA is excited to join in supporting a call to action for culture at COP28 – and we invite you to join as well!