Knowledge and information are essential for development. Public libraries are the main – often the only – places where people can go to find knowledge and information.
Today’s public libraries also provide a wide range of other services that contribute to community development. Through innovative services that use information and communication technology (ICT), public libraries are helping job-seekers find work; health workers to heal their patients, farmers to increase their yields; schoolchildren to pass exams, and more.
With ICT, public libraries are a vital link between communities and sources of information and support from government and civil society organizations.
Public libraries provide space and opportunities for people to meet and share knowledge and experiences.