IFLA Statement On Libraries And Open And Good Governance (2020)

Abstract

Relating to Sustainable Development Goal 16 – peace, justice and strong institutions – IFLA’s Statement on Libraries and Open and Good Governance provides recommendations for governments and others on how to make the most of library and information services to improve policy-making and implementation.

Endorsed by the IFLA Governing Board on 11 December 2020, the statement is available to IFLA’s Members and others for use in advocacy. It benefitted from input from IFLA's Government Information and Official Publications, Government Libraries, Law Libraries and Library and Research Services for Parliaments Sections.

The statement highlights the role of libraries in supporting better decision-making, transparency, access to justice, and informed societies. It outlines how libraries contribute to achieving SDG 16 by providing access to legal and government information, supporting oversight, and empowering citizens.

Recommendations include recognising and supporting library services in government and parliaments, guaranteeing public access to information, implementing freedom of information laws, and investing in legal information access and librarian education.