A global impact: Transforming shared professional values into collective action
American Libraries, (2023)Libraries; Sustainable development; UN Agenda 2030.Abstract
The interconnectedness of our world has been highlighted for many of us over the past few years. Although countries and regions may have different governments, values, and characteristics, we all have the same basic human needs and share many of the same challenges. For me, this was on full view during my international travels representing ALA last year. When other library workers and I attended the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions' World Library and Information Congress (IFLA WLIC) in Dublin, Ireland, in July, we heard from Mary Robinson, the first female president of Ireland who now works as a climate activist. As library workers in the US, we are inspired by and inspiring to library workers and libraries across the world. Our professional values and standards set the model for work not just at ALA but also for libraries around the globe.