EMERGING INTERNATIONAL VOICES: THE GOETHE-INSTITUT PROGRAMME WITH IFLA
The COVID-19-crisis has been a turning point for many libraries worldwide. Libraries' digital services, previously seen as complementary to print media loans and local events, have become the main way of providing users with information. But how can we build up a digital community around a library? What does connecting to a digital community mean? What role does social media play in engaging with library users? What is the purpose of a library amidst the great abundance of online streaming platforms?
Do these questions resonate with you? Do you like sharing your beliefs and influencing others? Would you like to connect with like-minded peers, and to make your voice heard? The Goethe-Institut is looking for young library advocates to share best-practice examples of libraries worldwide engaging with their digital communities. Apply to participate and become a part of an international network!
Apply if…
- You believe that libraries' digital services are more important than ever.
- You are connected to the library sector (work / support / advocate for libraries) in the UK, Ireland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Sweden, Finland or the Netherlands.
- You are active on social media / blogs and are already spreading the word about the importance of libraries.
- You have a critical mindset and are not afraid to voice your opinions.
- You are fluent in spoken and written English.
- You are under 35 years old.
What we offer…
- A chance to participate in three webinars and direct exchange with experts in the field of digital community building.
- A network of young, like-minded library professionals.
- A platform for your reflections.
- An expense allowance of 500 EUR.
- A chance to apply for a further grant to participate in IFLA 2021 in Rotterdam.
What we expect…
- You would participate in three webinars in October 2020 (8th, 15th, 22nd Oct., 1PM – 3PM MET) in order to discuss library strategies worldwide.
- You would promote discussion on the topics via your social media channels.
- You would sum up your experience as well as the ideas generated through the webinars and social media exchange with fellow emerging voices in an article. The article would be published on the websites of the Goethe-Institutes together with the articles of other participants.
- Your articles, pictures and social media posts would be published on goethe.de as well as the local websites of the Goethe-Institut and licensed as Creative Commons BY–SA 4.0.
How to apply?
- Fill out the form (https://www.goethe.de/ins/gb/en/kul/ser/opc/eiv.html) including a CV, a short cover letter and a short statement on the role of digital services of libraries in your country. The statement should not be longer than 1000 words and be suitable for publication on goethe.de. The deadline for the application is September 8, 2020.
