About “Libraries for Innovation 2”

In 2013 Martynas Mazvydas National Library of Lithuania applied to the Global Libraries Program implemeted by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for a grant for a project “Libraries for Innovation 2”. Its goal is to enable libraries to respond to communities’ evolving needs, and position them as sustainable community institutions, so that they increase opportunities for Lithuanian citizens to quality of life.

During the project, public libraries have received series of trainings and consultations related to ICT as well as project writing, implementation and impact assessment. After intense learning experience, libraries were invited to write and submit their own project proposals addressing the issues relevant to their communities (youth employability, reduction of digital and social exclusion, promotion of entrepreneurship, etc.), and apply for partial funding. Libraries together with social partners submitted 57 project applications. 45 projects were granted 1.2 M euro funding. The money was used to develop new and improve existing library services based on the use of ICT. The examples include wide spectrum of trainings for library users: ICT, programming, 3 D graphics, robotics, foreign languages, entrepreneurship, etc. Also, libraries developed innovative services to users of various ages (bibliotherapy sessions, interactive educational games, live broadcasts to remote communities, etc.). Libraries have also renewed their infrastructure by installing various labs and recreational areas that communities and library partners can utilize for creative and educational purposes. All the activities of the funded projects will be completed by the middle of 2016.

The key partners of the project “Libraries for Innovation 2” are Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania. Also, a number of partners from business and public sectors and NGOs are involved in the project, implementing joint initiatives in public libraries.

INFOGRAPHIC OF “LIBRARIES FOR INNOVATION 2”

“LIBRARIES FOR INNOVATION 2” PROJECT REPORT FOR 2015 ›