Report: The Libraries and Museums of Europe in Times of Change

Here’s a full text report (Feb. 2016) published by the Council of Europe titled, The Libraries And Museums Of Europe In Times Of Change.
From the Summary:

With the growing importance of the knowledge economy in Europe, libraries and museums act as a resource for human development and lifelong learning. They also provide safe and dynamic meeting places for the local community. In addition, they can be instrumental in creating jobs, attracting businesses and supporting the overall investment climate. In view of their cultural, social and economic importance, governments should protect libraries and museums for the benefit of future generations.
Notwithstanding the importance and relevance of the big libraries and museums, the report focuses on smaller public institutions which play a crucial role in their local community and are under pressure today to reduce their public service or even to close. Public funding in this sector should be regarded as an investment that can generate return in the form of social benefits and economic growth. Even in difficult economic circumstances, relationships between governments and cultural institutions should have a firm base in mutual understanding and trust. One of the principles underlying such trust is guaranteeing the institutions’ freedom to take strategic decisions, to define priorities and to choose how they operate, in order to adjust and develop in times of change.
The Council of Europe member States should develop strategic thinking at national level to reform, wherever necessary, the library and museum sectors. The process should pool wide expertise and consultation with a view to improving leadership and staffing, diversifying sources of funding to enable greater financial resilience, strengthening partnerships and networks and promoting the use of digital technology and creative media.

Direct to Full Text Report: The Libraries And Museums Of Europe In Times Of Change.(18 pages; PDF)

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