Library development in Central and Eastern Europe A workshop on "Library development in Central and Eastern Europe, from assistance to cooperation: An investment for the future" was held on 3-4 February 1994 in Strasbourg. The workshop was organized in the framework of the Libraries programme, part of the European Commission... A workshop on "Library development in Central and Eastern Europe, from assistance to cooperation: An investment for the future" was held on 3-4 February 1994 in Strasbourg. The workshop was organized in the framework of the Libraries programme, part of the European Commission's R&D programme on "Telematics systems in areas of general interest" (DG XIII). The focus of the Libraries programme is on the application of information and communication technologies in the libraries area. The aim of the conference was to stimulate library development in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. The main points addressed during the debate were concerned with libraries in their national context and specific education and training issues. The key issue raised was the need for a gradual shift from assistance-based programmes to genuine cooperative action. The following themes were considered for future action: - Creation of an open society, by providing up-to-date information and services. This would ensure the modernization of education and research; - Creation of cultural partnerships, by sharing cultural resources within Europe as a whole. This would cover areas such as conservation, modernization and the exploitation of collections; - Creation of a market economy, for the provision of business, education and employment information by libraries. The proceedings of the workshop are now available. They identify the options, priorities and future lines of action for library development, along with a review of the main EU programmes and Member State activities concerning cooperation with Central and Eastern Europe.
