The Novateca program, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and the National Library of Moldova, launched the 2nd phase of the national public library awareness campaign “See You at the Library!” on March 24, 2017, highlighting the impact that modernized public libraries are having on lives of Moldovan citizens across the country.

With over 1000 modernized libraries having now become active community centers that meet the citizens’ needs in new ways, the 2nd phase of the public awareness campaign will promote a variety of the most popular types of training services offered at libraries free of charge, including digital inclusion training, economic development, agriculture, health, family, and non-formal education for children and youth.

“Over the last 5 years we have worked to infuse technology into more than 1000 libraries and train librarians how to use these services. Now, we are focusing on giving librarians the capacities to do their own promotion and service development,” mentioned Evan Tracz, Novateca Program Director.

Engaged librarians, supported by their local and national partners from the public and private sectors, and community volunteers, will be actively involved in offering and promoting this wide range of modern service options for citizens of different ages, occupations, interests and needs across the country, building on the already impressive progress over the last few years.

In 2016, more than 465,000 Moldovans benefited from free access to technology, specialized services, and trainings. Of those visitors, 81% used modern technologies to access relevant information, saving both money and time, 54% created online content, and half used library technology to communicate and stay connected with their family members and friends both in Moldova and abroad.

“Moldovan libraries have become active, multi-functioning community centers managed by professional librarians that offer services that go beyond the traditional library role and meet the needs of citizens of different ages and interests across the country,” said Igor Șarov, Vice-Minister of Culture.

Moldovan citizens of different ages, occupations and interests are coming to the library to get new knowledge and useful information and learn new skills. Recent national surveys show that 14% of library visitors accessed Internet for the first time while at the library, and 45% gained online job search and application skills.

“Statistical data represent a key tool which enables the libraries to better meet the citizens’ needs and maximize their impact on people’s lives,” mentioned Elena Pintilei, Director of the National Library of Moldova.

The 2nd phase of the “See You at the Library!” campaign will run through October, with the goal of extending these benefits and services to thousands of new users, and underscoring the important role that libraries can play in improving lives and expanding opportunities for all Moldovan citizens.