IFLA Invites Signatures to the “Library Pledge for Digital Inclusion”

From the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA):

IFLA is proud to sign up to two documents addressing a key issue of our time – the digital divide. The first calls on governments to act to support investment in wider connectivity and the libraries that help users make the most of it. The second represents a pledge to do all in our power to promote digital inclusion, and is open to wider signatures.

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IFLA has therefore signed on Libraries in Response: Every Community Connected, a call to action by a range of stakeholders. This calls on governments to act to:

• Ensure that each community has access to at least one publicly-available, adequately connected, no-fee internet access point, and that every school has access to an online or offline library.
• Mobilize libraries to act as community labs for action research, improving how we connect, protect and respect each other, and work together to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
• Ensure adequate trained staffing and access to equipment for libraries and other community anchor institutions to provide a safe and secure access point to networks, respectful of privacy, and support for digital skills and education throughout life, enabling people to learn, earn and thrive.

See also the press release for the launch of this statement.

Delivering on Our Side of the Bargain

In parallel, we are proud to launch our own Library Pledge, demonstrating IFLA’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion. Show your own commitment to promoting meaningful access for all by adding your signature at this link.

Read the Complete IFLA Post

Sign the Pledge

See Also: Every Community Connected – A Call to Action

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