Applications BSLA

BSLA: Applications to participate in 2014 regional convening in Latin America and Caribbean now open

IFLA’s successful Building Strong Library Associations (BSLA) programme will be expanded through a series of convenings and projects at the regional level in Africa, Asia and Oceania, and Latin America and the Caribbean from 2014.

Latin America and Caribbean Convening: São Paulo, Brazil, 24-27 March 2014

Brazilian Federation of Associations of Librarians, Scientists of the Information and Institutions (FEBAB) and Universidade de São Paulo will host the Latin America and Caribbean Convening from 24-27 March 2014 in  São Paulo, Brazil. IFLA invites national and regional (members in more than one country) library associations in the Latin America and Caribbean region to apply to participate in the convening.

The convening will include workshops, practical activities and project planning. Materials will be delivered from the BSLA programme, as well as IFLA’s advocacy initiatives. The convening will be a very interactive meeting involving presentations, group work, discussions, and practical activities to take back to national associations to implement at the national or regional level. The meeting language will be Spanish and Portuguese.

During the convening, associations will identify their own needs for further activities and development, identify needs in the region, and form action plans for implementation. Participants will assess their association’s and the region’s priorities and understand opportunities for follow-up activities and project funding.

Participating associations will play different roles during the convening – sharing experiences and strategies with others, and benefiting from an opportunity to learn from other associations in their region. Up to 10 associations will be selected to participate in the convening. At least two people will be selected from each association.

Follow-up activities and project funding

After the convenings, participating associations will be invited to apply for project funding. These projects could include support to:

• Implement BSLA workshops and activities at existing events eg national and regional library association conferences;
• Deliver projects in-country, such as a series of BSLA workshops and activities;
• Implement IFLA advocacy projects or policies;
• ​ Undertake projects bringing together a smaller number of associations in the region to form alliances or partnerships in pursuit of advocacy goals.

Associations will have several opportunities to apply for project funds between 2014-2016, as needs and priorities evolve.

Expected outcomes

To build a strong library sector that benefits society, associations need a strong foundation in representation, governance, organisational development and strategy. The long-term goal of the programme is to build the foundation for library associations to assist their work in representing the interests of library users, telling the story of libraries and gaining policymaker support and partnership.

The convening and follow-up activities will:

• Reinforce inter-country networks and expertise to support development in the regions;
• Increase understanding and adoption of IFLA policies and manifestos to support high quality library and information services;
• Promote strong, credible associations that effectively represent the sector through improved leadership, governance, partnerships and membership;
• Provide a foundation for sustained development and advocacy.

Selection process for the convening 

The selection committee will comprise members of the IFLA ALP committee, and representatives from the regions where the convenings will take place. Applications will be shortlisted by the selection committee against the selection criteria. A member of the selection committee may contact applicants where they need to clarify any part of an application.

Selection criteria

1. Readiness to carry out development: the library and broader social/political/economic environment is receptive to library development;
2. Ability to build capacity: The Association has the capacity to implement action plans and projects. Applicants are selected for success and likely impact.

Additionally, each participant representing their association should have:

• Demonstrated, current active leadership within their national or regional association; together with standing and influence within the profession at a national and/or regional level;
• A depth of understanding of issues that have a current or expected impact on the library and information services sector on a national and regional level;
• The ability to use their knowledge and experience to develop the capacity of their Association after the convening;
• Proven ability to build networks and professional relationships;
• Proven ability for creative thinking and innovative ideas; results motivation;
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Guidance for completing your application

Download and complete the application form [Word Document]

1. All applications should be submitted by a national or regional (members in more than one country) library association;
2. Persons nominated to attend the convening must be in a position to represent the Association and effectively participate in the meeting and lead follow-up activities;
3. Applications may be submitted in Spanish or English language.

Submitting your application

All project applications and attachments should be submitted by 29 January 2014 to alp@ifla.org

Contact

For further information about the BSLA Programme or the Convening, contact IFLA Manager Member Services and Development, Fiona Bradley

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