Professional growth of the participants within IFLA Sister Libraries Programme IFLA WLIC Cape Town, Ulla Pötsönen Carolynn Rankin

Current state of the programme From year 2009, initially as an IFLA project Funded by Norwegian trade union Fagforbundet 89 libraries 36 countries 49 pairings

Sister Libraries Programme as a Community of practice ”A group of people who share a concern or passion for something they do and learn how to do it better as they interact regularly” Active, ongoing and organic process According to Lave & Wenger 1991

Expectations of the participants To engage the children and for them to be able to promote reading and learn from others’ reading experiences. To share our knowledge and ideas. Probably we could make common creative project. We would like the opportunity to learn how young adult services are provided in other countries and to expose our young patrons to a culture they may not be familiar with.

What personal benefits have you gained in being a member of SL programme? A survey in June 2015 Professional networks Fun with colleagues through friendship Access to expertise from others New ways of looking at work processes

What benefits have you gained... Improved communications and language skills Improved library advocacy skills Increased confidence in the workplace Help with challenges Know other cultures and other ways of seeing and promote the library

What is the most valuable benefit you've gained with SL Programme? Help in Mentoring the Library and Committee Knowing other realities Sharing good experiences, both ways This programme contributes increasing the friendship between librarians from different countries. Increased knowledge of the techniques of reading promotion

Most valuable benefit...? A wider perspective and insight into other countries To spread knowledge of my country and its literature Friendship Strong personal confident in the professional way I manage to cascade the information to School Libraries in my country and enjoy the professional value it brings Interesting to exchange working ideas

To be continued... If you want to be a part of the programme, register If you have more questions, contact Ulla Thank you and let's be in touch!