EVENT BRIEF | BEYOND ACCESS 2012
Local Alternatives for Global Development: Rediscovering Libraries A smarter way of doing development: working with trusted local institutions Public libraries are often overlooked as development partners, even though they’re locally-based, sustainable, publicly funded, professionally staffed, and trusted by the communities they serve. More than 230,000 public libraries — 73% of the world’s total — are located in developing and transitioning countries. Worldwide there are 13 times more public libraries than hospitals. At a time of tight development budgets, investing in new infrastructure and unproven models is risky — working with libraries offers a better, smarter way of doing development. Funders can capitalize on the results that these local institutions have already produced in their own communities, focusing on creating economies of scale and scope. Libraries advance development by doing more than enabling access to information. They are safe and supportive environments that often provide services to vulnerable populations — such as youth and women — and that have played an important role in advancing skills and literacies, solving problems, and strengthening communities.
On October 3, 2012, Beyond Access brought together 350 participants from 39 countries for Local Alternatives for Global Development: Rediscovering Libraries — the first major international forum to explore libraries as development partners; raise awareness about innovative projects, services, and technologies; and begin making connections between representatives from government, civil society, and the library and international development communities. The conference was preceded by a two-day Library Innovators Camp and a day of dedicated sessions for government officials.