Library Associations and the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

A survey of IFLA’s library association members demonstrates both that there is relatively widespread engagement with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda, but that there is scope for more. In particular, associations have drawn on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to inform and build strategies, as well as to mobilise their fields around broader societal issues.

Overall, it comes across that associations have tended to be more focused on working within the profession than beyond it but nonetheless have seen the SDGs as helping to build wider awareness of the rich contributions that libraries make to their communities.

As we look to the post-2030 Agenda, there is a need to overcome the sense of distance between global agendas and the operational work of libraries, through guidance, adapted indicators and other tools. In parallel, a drive to promote localisation in the delivery of any future agenda, as well as to recognise priorities such as culture and intellectual freedom, will create a more favourable context for realising the full potential of libraries to drive development.