Uniting Countries and Continents: Dialogue of Professionals at the International Library Forum

Abstract

The article focuses on the results of the International Video Conference “Library Services on Three Continents” organized by the National Library of Russia. The idea to hold the conference was motivated by the interest in intensifying professional contacts. Capabilities of modern Internet technologies, including the use of remote forms of cooperation, play an invaluable role there. The COVID-19 pandemic, followed by the special military operation, created unfavourable conditions for Russian librarians to visit some foreign countries and for colleagues from these countries to come to Russia. The exchange of professional information becomes difficult. At the same time, maintaining a dialogue between librarians of different states is an objective need. The video conference held on November 15, 2022, provided the comprehensive overview of how libraries in different countries on three continents can contribute to the progress of society, the development of information literacy; it showed their place in the global information exchange, and impact on the development of science, culture and education. 34 expert reports analysed the further introduction of information and communication technologies into the work of libraries at different levels, demonstrated actions to attract new readers in terms of using subscriptions on demand and other ways of providing literature, organizing open access. The conference discussed the projects for children and environmental education programs, presented the interesting practices of working in the pandemic, as well as considered the other issues.Professionals from 21 countries of Eurasia, Africa and South America have presented their experience of working with readers, interacting with the public authorities of their country and their partners all around the world and discussed the system of professional education. The reports showed that libraries are currently solving a wide range of problems, increasing the cultural level of readers and preserving their national heritage.