Applying IFLA Standards to Compile National Standards: Standardization Activities in Iran

Abstract

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) is a leading international body representing the interests of library and information services and their users.

One of the objectives assumed by IFLA as an independent, international, nongovernmental, and nonprofit organization is promotion of high-level standards for presentation of library and information services. Over the past fifty years, IFLA has codified a wide range of standards at all fields of library and information services.

Translating IFLA standards, different countries of the world make use of these standards in order to present enhanced library and information services. Even though, in Iran, as a leading country in application of IFLA standards, other activities are undertaken as well. Iran is located in south western Asia. It has more than 3,000 public libraries. According to the Iranian law, institution of Iranian public libraries is a general and nongovernmental foundation that is responsible for establishment, construction, equipment, development, management, and supervision over statewide Iranian public libraries. This Foundation has a department called Bureau of Standards. In addition to translating IFLA standards and comparing conditions dominant on the Iranian libraries with IFLA standards, Iran Public Libraries Bureau of Standards makes use of IFLA standards to codify national Iranian standards.

In Iran, the National Organization for Standardization is a member and representative of...