On 6th and 8th September, Novateca, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and the National Library for Children, organized the first informative sessions for the public libraries for children selected to join the network.

New technology and new expectations urge libraries to show new value and develop modern services that attract more audiences and expand education opportunities for citizens. The two events gathered over 150 librarians and local public authorities (LPA) representatives and familiarized them with the overall concept of Novateca program, the logistical aspects of the equipment process, and opportunities for librarians’ professional development.

“We are witnessing a revolution in the activities of public libraries, which are subject to constant modernization and reform,” asserted Monica Babuc, Minister of Culture. The Minister encouraged LPA and Raion Councils’ representatives to be to proactive and support public libraries in the modernization process and the development of sustainable communities.

To ensure free access to Internet and online resources, 56 libraries for children will be equipped with 156 tablets, 16 computers and network equipment. At the same time, more than 50 librarians will receive trainings in IT and the development of modern library services for children, by tablets.

“The infusion of technology and tools, and the right use of training and guidance can expand the value of library, especially the children’s library,” mentioned Evan Tracz, Novateca Program Director. “Tablets and applications can be used in very powerful ways that enhance learning, but also bring new elements and ideas to the table,” he added.

The attendees participated in workshops on using tablets and developing educational games for children and teenagers. They also split in small groups to discuss the process of library equipping, trainings in IT, cooperation with local public authorities, policies related to the use of tablets and Internet, and monthly online reporting.

Claudia Balaban, the Director of the National Library for Children held an informative session about the use of tablets and the benefits they offer. “Tablets and the available applications bring change in the educational system. They offer children the opportunity to be more creative and learn in an interactive manner,” she affirmed.

Among the libraries selected to receive IT equipment and professional training for librarians are the public libraries for children from Chisinau, Balti, Cahul, Calarasi, Causeni, Donduseni, Drochia, Dubasari Edinet, Falesti, Floresti, Gagauzia, Hancesti, Ialoveni, Ocnita, Orhei, Rezina, Singerei, Soroca, Taraclia, Telenesti, and Ungheni.

Public libraries for children joined the Novateca network as part of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Novateca/IREX Moldova and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova. Under the Memorandum and through a partnership with the National Children Library, the parties agreed to equip children’s libraries with tablets and other modern technologies, develop modern library services for children, train librarians to implement new services using tablets, strengthen children's libraries in the country, increase support from local authorities to modernize libraries for children, and create a Center of Excellence and Training at the National Library for Children to ensure ongoing professional development for children’s librarians.

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