Libraries and national development plans.

Abstract

Why do libraries need to be included in national development plans? Increased access to information and knowledge, underpinned by universal literacy, is an essential pillar of sustainable development as evidenced by target 16.10 of the Sustainable Development Goals: 16.10: "Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreement." Access to information is cross-cutting, and can help support all of the SDGs. IFLA believes that increasing access to information and knowledge across society, assisted by the availability of information and communications technologies (ICTs), supports The Lyon Declaration on Access to Information and Development. shows that libraries, information intermediaries, and development organisations are united behind the inclusion of access to information in the post-2015 development framework. Over 500 organisations have signed the declaration. Libraries strongly support broader development targets on access to information. Libraries are the institutions in society that assist people to exercise their right to information, and safeguard and provide access to cultural heritage. The growth of libraries in an evolving information and cultural environment is essential, as key stakeholders providing access to information, education and research and social participation. sustainable development and improves people’s lives.