Repositioning Libraries as a Key Policy Asset

Webinar 1: Strengthening Europe through Public Libraries

Thursday, 24 September 2026 | 11:00 – 12:00 CET

A brand-new EU expert report, Strengthening Europe through Public Libraries, shows how 67,000 European libraries address ten different societal challenges, making them a key public asset.

The webinar will present the report’s findings, showcase best practices from across Europe, and explore how the report can be used to strengthen the advocacy of libraries and library associations.

Facilitators:

Klaas Gommers, Policy Advisor, Dutch Association of Public Libraries, and Stuart Hamilton, Head, Libraries Development, Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), Ireland – co-chairs of the EU expert group on libraries.

 

Webinar 2: Crisis Preparedness

Thursday, 15 October 2026 | 16:00 – 17:00 CET

With increasing political, economic and environmental challenges, libraries often find themselves on the front line when responding to crises. This webinar will look at how library services can prepare in advance, drawing on practical approaches and experiences from across Europe.

Speakers: Silvia-Raluca Badulescu and Lorenza Palmarini (Swedish Library Association, Sweden); Ivo Tokić (National and University Library in Zagreb, Croatia); and James Pearson (Kent Libraries, Registration and Archives, United Kingdom).

Facilitator:

Sean McNamara, Director of CILIP Scotland, United Kingdom

One registration gives access to both webinars  Register here

Further information: https://eblida.org/event/repositioning-libraries-as-a-key-policy-asset-eblida-elan-webinar-series/