An International Experience

Public Libraries Tour 2017

Part 1

World Library Congress

&

Germany

Jane Cowell

The Overview

• IFLA World Congress 2017

• 12 Libraries in 17 days

• 4 Countries – Poland, Germany, Denmark,

United Kingdom

Shows how full bleed image can be used. Caption preferably in white, or

black if a light photo. Minimum 20pt arial

Overall impressions• Very tied to large book collections that

were quite old

• Have very traditional buildings & limited

investment

• Very connected to community

• Developing event / programs to build

audiences

Refugee Program

Overall Impressions

• Integration of digital and print formats & services

• Significant increase of refugees in 2015-16 &

need for library to respond with specific program

• Actively looking for new library service models

and engagement opportunities

• Active work program for refugees who are

librarians

Overall Impressions

• Want right mix of gimmicks digital &

physical as attractors

• Sunday closing is an issue

• Challenge for staff / skill set in the Tech &

Event space

• Open Plus Library

Overall Impressions

• Great refurbishment of an old building

• Services are responsive to community need

• Do have a business focus with Customer

Service standards in place

• Work to embed customer focus as a culture with

staff

Overall Impressions

• Challenges:

– eResources – acquisition / lending / legal &

financial models

– Open Access policies

– Sunday opening