III - Libraries and the economy
Libraries today are at a crossroads. While maintaining their traditional mission to instil a love of reading and learning, they are required to transform and expand their functions and services, such as adapting to a digital environment, which requires new resources, innovation and skills. The projects highlighted in this chapter work on new resources and new skills. For example, LibrarIN is a project that leverages the process of value co-creation to provide libraries with new metrics, best practices and recommendations to move towards a real transformation and a demand-driven service model. Then there’s the ELAN project, which works directly with library associations to ensure that European libraries are equipped to serve the evolving needs of their communities.
Navigating today’s digital world
Of those evolving community needs, perhaps none is more pressing than equipping citizens with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly digital world. This is where projects such as TELL, LIBRA.I. and DigLib come into play, each of which trains librarians to better serve the digital needs of library users. Whereas TELL aims to deliver tailored adult learning opportunities to around 1 500 library professionals, LIBRA.I. develops AI-related training for librarians also covering the ethical implications of using this game-changing technology. Meanwhile, DigLib intends to map the digital skills required by both librarians and adult users. Based on this work, the project will deliver a capacity-building programme designed to transform libraries into vibrant digital hubs.
This way to resources and funding
Of course, delivering new services and learning opportunities requires resources and funding, which many public libraries lack. However, the EU offers numerous support and funding programmes specifically earmarked for adult education initiatives. Working to connect the two is RL:EU. In addition to raising awareness about these EU initiatives, it developed a platform to help libraries develop European projects and access funding.
Futureproofing our libraries – and citizens
By providing Europe’s libraries and librarians with the resources and training they need to drive their own social and digital transformations, the projects featured in this chapter ensure that both libraries – and citizens – are fit for the future.