During December 13-16, nine representatives of public libraries from Moldova made a study visit to Polish public libraries from the Krakow region, where they learned about the best practices and explored the modern services implemented by their foreign colleagues.

Those eight representatives of libraries from the Novateca network and the robotics trainer visited the municipal libraries from Oświęcim and Chrzanów, and the Krakow, Wielka Wieś and Skawina public libraries, where they got valuable advice on building partnerships and interacted with library visitors.

The Polish libraries recently adopted the Scandinavian architectural style, with glass buildings and minimalist design, which allows them to optimize and use the space in a more efficient way. The Moldovan guests had the chance to see how makerspaces are organized and maintained, and to learn about new library services using tablets and robotics.

As the Polish libraries do not have sufficient funds to implement new technologies and services, librarians organize periodical surveys asking their patrons about their needs and conduct public funding campaigns.

The Moldovan representatives were impressed to know that all those libraries provide foreign language courses organized by volunteers, and that the library card offers discounts at various shops and businesses that partner with libraries. At the same time, librarians collect visitors’ contact details and keep them in the loop on the events and activities organized.

Among the most popular services offered by Polish libraries are provision of Internet access, tablet apps and games, books borrowing, cartoons and other interactive activities.

All Moldovan representatives have committed to implement the knowledge acquired during the study visit and to develop new library services in their libraries.

Please click on the following link to access more photos taken during the study visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/110739417@N03/albums/72157676715897430