Today is: International Day for Universal Access to Information 2017

Details via a Statement From IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations):

Even as information has become abundant, it is clear not only that libraries are trusted, but that they are particularly essential for the groups most in need of a hand-up. This is because access is about more than just having the book, the journal, the computer or the mobile in front of you, but it is also about being able to find relevant content, to understand and apply it, and to have the skills and freedom to create your own.
This access cannot be taken for granted. There are still great challenges associated with getting the remaining four billion people online. To give them the skills and confidence necessary to take advantage of the opportunities, to ensure the availability of local content, and to guarantee to all that they can exercise the right to free expression will take further efforts. But they will be worth it..
The International Day for the Universal Access to Information originally focused on access to government information – how was money being spent, how were decisions being taken. This contributes strongly to ensuring that public authorities are genuinely focused on serving the public. Libraries play a significant role here, as centres where people can access government information, as trusted repositories of historic and current documents, and as catalysts for civic engagement.
In its Development and Access to Information (DA2I) report, IFLA has taken a broader view. It has argued that access to all types of information – government documents, academic research, news, market data, educational content, social media – needs to be taken into account if individuals are to benefit fully, and the Sustainable Development Goals to be achieved,

Direct to Complete Statement and Links
Direct to Development and Access to Information (DA2I) Report
Direct to UNESCO’s Universal Access to Information 2017 Website
Recorded on September 25, 2017

See Also:  New Report From TASCHA and IFLA: “Development and Access to Information (DA2I)” (July 17, 2017)

Filed under: Associations and Organizations, Data Files, Libraries, News, Open Access