Novateca closed the online applications process of the first selection process for public libraries to be included in the Novateca network. More than 600 libraries from over 30 raions across Moldova have submitted their application forms to receive investments of information and communications technology, training and support for librarians in the development of new library services relevant to their communities, and increased engagement with the larger library development movement in Moldova and around the world.

All the applications forms will be evaluated by a special selection committee, whose mandate will be to nominate and elect candidate-libraries for inclusion in the network. The committee will be made up of representatives of various key partner organizations, including the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Information Technology and Communications, the National Library, the Association of Librarians from Republic of Moldova, Peace Corps Moldova, the FHI 360’s Civil Society Strengthening Program, and the e-Government Center.

At the end of May, the selection committee will select the semi-finalist libraries.. The semi-finalist will be then visited by the Novateca team to validate the accuracy of the application forms.

Novateca wants to thank all the libraries and that submitted online applications and their enthusiasm to join the network, and public administration authorities for their support of the library modernization movement in Moldova.