IFLA History

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https://repository.ifla.org/handle/20.500.14598/3650

Publications and archival material related to IFLA’s long history, covering: its founding in 1927, relations with other international bodies, plus reports on trends, past congresses, governance, membership, strategic planning, news, reports, and various activities. Most material created before 2000.

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 152

Studies in Comparative Librarianship: Three Essays Presented for the Sevensma Prize 1971
(1973) Burnett, A. D.; Gupta, R. K.; Simsova, S.; Francis, Frank
Studies in Comparative Librarianship presents three essays awarded in the 1971 Sevensma Prize competition, authored by A.D. Burnett, R.K. Gupta, and S. Šimšová. Published in 1973 on behalf of IFLA by the Library Association, the volume explores the complexities of comparing library services across different national and cultural contexts. The authors examine methodological challenges such as data collection, interpretation, and the influence of social, political, and economic environments on libraries. Through critical reflection, the essays highlight the potential of comparative studies to foster international understanding while acknowledging the limits imposed by subjective perspectives, incomplete data, and institutional variability. The collection serves both as a scholarly contribution and a foundational resource for future research in comparative librarianship.
Transborder Flow of Bibliographic Data
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1985) Maruyama, Lenore S.
Transborder Flow of Bibliographic Data, authored by Lenore S. Maruyama and published by IFLA in 1985, examines the international transmission of bibliographic information and the challenges it faces. Commissioned by the IFLA Section on Information Technology, the report identifies key institutions involved in bibliographic data exchange, analyzes the barriers impeding this flow—such as trade restrictions, technical standards, copyright issues, and national data policies—and highlights the economic and research implications of these barriers. The study emphasizes the growing relevance of bibliographic data in global information systems and offers strategic recommendations for policy development, international cooperation, and professional engagement to ensure equitable and efficient access to bibliographic resources across borders.
Research Networks and Libraries: Applications and Issues for a Global Information Network
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1991) Cleveland, Gary
In 1991, within the inaugural volume of IFLA’s UDT Series on Data Communication Technologies and Standards for Libraries, Gary Cleveland published Research Networks and Libraries: Applications and Issues for a Global Information Network. As the Internet and academic networks began to reshape global information exchange, this technical report sought to frame their relevance for libraries. Cleveland traces the evolution of research networks, explains fundamental networking concepts, and examines how libraries can adopt protocols such as OSI and TCP/IP to enhance services like interlibrary loan, shared cataloguing, and electronic document delivery. The study details projects from North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, while also addressing governance, copyright, staffing, and access issues. Aimed at equipping librarians with the knowledge to participate in the emerging global information infrastructure, the report became a foundational reference for discussions on digital interoperability, standards, and policy in library contexts.
Models for Open System Protocol Development: A Technical Report
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1994) Holm, Liv A.
In 1994, within the framework of IFLA’s Universal Dataflow and Telecommunications Core Programme, Liv A. Holm—lecturer at the Norwegian School of Library and Information Science and long-time member of ISO Working Group 4—published Models for Open System Protocol Development: A Technical Report. This sixth volume in the UDT Series emerged from a pressing need to clarify the architecture, roles, and interplay of the newly formalized international standards for Search and Retrieve (SR) and Interlibrary Loan (ILL) protocols, designed specifically for the information community. Drawing from the expertise of technical contributors across Europe and North America, the report addresses not only the technical mechanics of these protocols, but also broader questions of interoperability, protocol layering, data formats, and emerging services such as document delivery and resource control. It stands as a reference document for system designers and policy-makers navigating the transition to open system communication in libraries.
Electronic Data Interchange: An Overview of EDI Standards for Libraries
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1993) Tallim, Paula; Zeeman, J.C.
This report offers an in-depth overview of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) standards as applied to libraries. Authored by Paula Tallim and J.C. Zeeman, it outlines the history, purpose, and global standardization efforts of EDI, focusing on ANSI X12 and UN/EDIFACT standards. It details supporting technologies, such as OSI protocols and messaging systems like X.400 and X.435, and explores their implications for libraries in areas like acquisitions and interlibrary loans. The report also discusses technical barriers, translation software, and international initiatives such as Open-edi. Produced by IFLA’s Universal Dataflow and Telecommunications Core Programme, the document serves as both an introduction and a reference for library professionals aiming to integrate EDI into their operations, enhancing efficiency and interoperability.
UAP Newsletter 1984-2001 (no.3-32)
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1985) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
The UAP Newsletter, published by the IFLA International Office for the Universal Availability of Publications (UAP), reports on global efforts to improve access to publications. It covers the development of the UAP programme through conferences, advisory committee activities, research projects, and regional seminars. Key topics include national acquisition policies, interlibrary lending, preservation, and the impact of new technologies. The newsletter highlights collaboration with UNESCO and other partners, and features case studies from countries like the UK, Nigeria, and members of a Southeast Asian consortium. It promotes planning, research, and policy-making to overcome barriers to access, particularly in developing countries. Through publications, guidelines, and training initiatives, the UAP Newsletter serves as a tool for advocacy, coordination, and dissemination of best practices to achieve universal access to published information.
Répertoire des associations de bibliothécaires membres de la Fédération internationale 1931-1963
(Martinus Nijhoff, 1931-1963) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA); Martinus Nijhoff
This collection brings together the published repertoires of library associations that were members of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) between 1931 and 1963. Each volume offers detailed directory information on library associations across various countries, including names, contact details, organizational structures, and activities. The publications were compiled with the support of UNESCO and reflect the evolving landscape of international librarianship throughout the mid-20th century. The texts are primarily in French, with bilingual titles, and were issued by M. Nijhoff in The Hague. The set provides valuable historical insight into the global development of professional library networks and IFLA's early international outreach efforts.
From Palm Leaves to PCs: Library Development in South East Asia [Bangkok, 1995]
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1995) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA); Sara Gould; Judy Watkins
Presented at the 1995 UAP Workshop in Bangkok, this report examines the development of library systems in Southeast Asia, highlighting the transition from traditional knowledge preservation methods, such as palm leaf manuscripts, to modern digital technologies. It explores the varied progress among countries in the region, from advanced national systems in Singapore and Malaysia to the post-conflict rebuilding efforts in Cambodia and Laos. Key challenges include limited infrastructure, lack of trained personnel, weak national policies, and unequal access to information, particularly in rural areas. The report underscores the importance of regional cooperation and international support from organizations like IFLA and UNESCO. It also emphasizes the need to invest in human resource development, legal frameworks, and preservation strategies. By analyzing regional experiences, the document advocates for a collaborative approach to modernizing libraries while preserving Southeast Asia’s rich documentary heritage and promoting equitable access to information.
A brief history of IFLA, 1927-1955
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1955) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
Typescript English translation of 'aperçu historique' section of IFLA's 'Répertoire des associations de bibliothécaires membres de la Fédération internationale', 5th edition, published in 1955.
Proposition tendant au fonctionnement d'un comité directeur international et permanent, élu par les diverses associations des bibliothécaires [1926]
(Imprimerie d'État, Prague, 1928) Henriot, Louis Gabriel; Koutník, Bohuslav
At the 1926 'Congrès international des bibliothécaires et des amis du livre' held in Prague, the president of Association des Bibliothécaires de France (A.B.F.), Gabriel Henriot (1880-1965), proposed the establishment of a permanent international library committee that could take care of the international relations among libraries and create the necessary conditions for the mutual international cooperation of librarians. The committee would soon form into the International Federation of Library Associations. This is Henriot's speech delivered at the congress, reproduced in 'Congrès international des bibliothécaires et des amis du livre, tenu à Prague du 28 juin au 3 juillet 1926 : procès-verbaux et mémoires.'
IFLA News (1962-1974)
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1962-07-15) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
IFLA News [initially 'IFLA News Bulletin'] was published between 1962 and 1974 as the official bulletin of the newly established IFLA Secretariat. Produced with financial support from UNESCO, the series reported on all aspects of IFLA's work and activities, including council meetings, international collaboration, developments in librarianship, and news from member associations. The bulletin offers valuable insights into the early institutional and geographic growth of IFLA and its evolving role in fostering global library cooperation. It was the precursor to IFLA Journal, which began publication in 1974 immediately after this series ceased.
IFLA, 1927-1977 [commemorative pin]
([s.n.], 1977-09) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
Commemorative pin made for IFLA's 50th Anniversary and distributed during the IFLA 1977 World Congress of Librarians in Brussels, Belgium, which took place from 3-10 September 1977.
Speech delivered by Vice-President of Kenya, Mwai Kibaki, during the official opening of the 50th IFLA General Conference in Nairobi, Kenya on 20 August 1984 [audio recording]
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1984-08-20) Kibaki, Mwai; Kenya Library Association
18-minute audio recording and full transcript of speech given during the official opening of the 50th IFLA General Conference in Nairobi, Kenya on 20 August 1984 by Vice-President of Kenya, Emilio Stanley Mwai Kibaki CGH (1931 – 2022). The recording was made by the Kenya Library Association. NOTE: "His Excellency, the Honorable Mwai Kibaki, had a prepared text which he laid aside, and, as noted by Hans-Peter Geh, 'His speech came from the bottom of the heart'. Because our local hosts were so well prepared, the speech was recorded and transcribed." [IFLA Journal, 10(4), 393-406.]
Interview mit Margreet Wijnstroom, Generalsekretärin der IFLA – 16 June 1981 [audio recording]
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1981-06-16) Wijnstroom, Margreet
7-minute German language audio recording and transcript of an interview with IFLA Secretary General Margreet Wijnstroom, made "...during [a] visit to Berlin [on] 16 June 1981 to attend [an] international press conference, re. the IFLA conference in the DDR-Leipzig." [from the insert]
IFLA Statutes and Rules of Procedure [2001]
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2001-07-18) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
"These statutes were adopted at the IFLA Council meeting held in Jerusalem, 13th August 2000, and registered with the Chamber of Commerce, The Hague, Netherlands on 18th July 2001. The order and numbering of the English text differs from that in the Dutch text as registered, but the content is identical."
IFLA Statutes and Rules of Procedure [2008]
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2008-10-20) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
"The [IFLA] Statutes were adopted at the IFLA Council meeting in Québec City, Canada, 14 August 2008. The text of these IFLA Statutes has been translated into Dutch, and the notarial deed of the amendment of the Statutes of IFLA shall be executed in the Dutch language, to comply with Dutch law. Inevitably, differences may occur in translating this text into Dutch, and if so, the Dutch text will by law prevail. On 20 October 2008, the notarial deed has been signed and following the statutes have been registered with the Chamber of Commerce in The Hague."
32nd Council and General Conference, 11 – 17 September 1966, The Hague, Netherlands [group photograph]
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 1966-09) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
IFLA-FIAB Consultative Committee at the 32nd Council and General Conference, which took place from 11 – 17 September 1966 in The Hague [Kurhaus, Scheveningen], Netherlands. The conference attracted 332 participants. This photo was reproduced in the 'Actes du Comité international des bibliothèques, v. XXXII'.
75th IFLA General Conference and Assembly, Milan, Italy 2009 [commemorative stamp]
(Ufficio Filatelica e Numismatica dello Stato della Città del Vaticano, 2009-05-20) Perrini, Maria Carmela
Vertical format, 30 x 40mm stamp issued on 20 May 2009 by Ufficio Filatelica e Numismatica dello Stato della Città del Vaticano [Philatelic and Numismatic Office of the Vatican City State] for the 75th IFLA General Conference and Assembly, which took place from 23-27 August 2009 in Milan, Italy.
46th IFLA General Conference, Manila, Philippines 1980 [commemorative stamps]
(Bureau of Posts, Manila, Philippines, 1980-08-18) International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
Set of 3 commemorative stamps issued by the Bureau of Posts for the 46th IFLA General Conference, held in Manila, Philippines during August 1980.
50th IFLA General Conference, Nairobi, Kenya 1984 [commemorative stamps and brochure]
(Kenya Posts and Telecommunications Corporation, 1984-06) Fernandes, Cajie
"The 50th IFLA General Conference to be held in Nairobi from 19th-25th August, 1984 will be the first on the African soil and it will be only the second time that the Conference is being held in a developing country. The theme for this conference will be "The basis of library and information services for national development". To mark this great event, Kenya Posts and Telecommunications Corporation will issue special stamps in denominations of 70cts, Shs 3/50, Shs 5/- and Shs 10/-. Release Date: 28th June 1984; Designer: Cajie Fernandes of Nairobi; Printer: M/S Harrison and Sons Ltd of London; Size: 27.94mm x 44.45mm; Paper: Unwatermarked; Format: Horizontal; Set: 50 to a sheet in 2 panes of 25; Process: Lithography; Values: -/70 Kenya Library Association and IFLA Logos; Shs 3/50 Mobile Library; Shs 5/- Adult Library; Shs 10/- Children's Library Issued by Kenya Posts and Telecommunications Corporation." [from the brochure]

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