FOLUSA Across the Ocean

All across the globe, both emerging democracies and established democracies often look to strengthen the tie between their public libraries and the citizens they serve. The U.S. Embassies often provide grants for the continuing education of librarians by bringing American library professionals to their countries to consult and provide workshops. As a consequence the executive director of Friends of Libraries U.S.A. has occasionally been asked to travel abroad to talk about the important role citizens can play in supporting the library as well as the role the library can play in ensuring that citizens have access to the information and learning resources they need to live full and productive lives.

The U.S. Embassies located in "new" democracies also have been providing grants for the establishment of "American Corners" in both academic and public libraries. These American Corners are collections of English language materials about America and democracy in all formats for free access for children and adults. In poorer countries, the American Corners provide patrons with the only available free access to the Internet.

As FOLUSA travels abroad to bring the important message about the value of citizen support for libraries, we will keep you informed of these activities and let you know if there are times when your group can help!