|
|
WLP ProgramsThe WLP Inform the World Library Skills ExchangeVolunteer abroad! This program provides practical, hands-on assistance and training to librarians in communities with a vast and pressing need for information. Inform the World (ITW) invites people who love libraries to volunteer in developing countries. The program is a unique opportunity to teach, learn and grow while experiencing another culture. ITW projects respond to the specific needs of individual libraries and include activities such as teaching a class on book repair, implementing a simple cataloguing system or leading a donkey driven “book mobile.” Most ITW projects take place during the summer and last for four weeks. Volunteers participate in cross-cultural and technical training prior to service and may earn academic credit from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. |
The WLP/Riecken Foundation Librarian Training Program in Central AmericaIn Honduras and Guatemala, WLP trains librarians at new libraries created by the Washington-based Riecken Foundation. Our emphasis is on making the libraries inviting, exciting, open spaces. To ensure sustainability, WLP works with library committees on strategic planning, policy making, goal setting and community involvement. We provide the librarians selected by the committees with initial training in how to set up and run the libraries. We also provide follow-up training in programming, outreach, community information services and the other topics shown here. WLP’s ITW volunteers (see above) provide on-site follow-up training on special topics and assist the librarians to implement skills learned in their initial training. |
|
The WLP Book Certificate ProgramThis program provides libraries in developing countries with the opportunity to select and purchase NEW materials. Too often, libraries in developing countries are stocked entirely with donated books from abroad. This means that they have no books in their local languages, no books written by local authors for local audiences and few books appropriate for developing countries. The books they do have are often out-of-date and in poor condition. The Book Certificate Program is an innovative alternative to traditional book donation that supports indigenous book sellers and publishers by purchasing locally-produced materials for libraries. |
|
The WLP Library Resources ProgramWLP supports sustainable library development by providing communities with valuable information through electronic and print resources: The WLP Library Resource Database supplies communities around the globe with information about:
For information about our other print, electronic and video publications, please see Publications. |