The document calls libraries to build communities and communities to build libraries. It discusses the Global Libraries Initiative's belief that access to information helps people transform their lives and too few have access to technology. It also outlines what libraries must do to meet user needs, build public support, and have strong supporting institutions. Finally, it encourages librarians that now is the time to renew and transform libraries.

1. Libraries building Communities,
Communities building Libraries
A call to action
Deborah Jacobs
Director, Global Libraries
Deputy Director, Special Initiatives
June 16, 2009

2. © 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | 2
Seattle Public Library, Central Branch

3. Seattle Public Library, Beacon Hill Branch © 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | 3

4. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Guided by the belief that all lives have equal value and every
person deserves the right to live a healthy, productive life.
© 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | 4

5. Global Libraries Initiative
We believe that:
Access to information helps people transform their lives
Too few have access to technology, creating a severe digital divide
We must use our voice loudly and effectively to strengthen and
champion libraries © 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | 5

6. Libraries must meet user needs; library workers need skill building and
training, libraries must offer an inviting public space; libraries must build public
support; and libraries must have strong library systems and supporting
institutions.
© 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | 6

7. A new direction for Seattle Public Library
© 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | 7

8. The New Library
Cultural,
Literacy
& Life skills
programming
© 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation |

9. There is NO TIME better
than NOW to be a librarian
This is the moment to renew, revitalize and transform ourselves and
our libraries.
© 2009 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | 9

10. Thank You