Inspire, Inform, Indicate: How the UNESCO-IFLA Public Library Manifesto Makes a Difference

The UNESCO-IFLA Public Library Manifesto, in its most recent edition, is entering its 25th anniversary year. To start the celebrations, IFLA has produced an article looking at the ways in which the Manifesto has shaped the library environment, through inspiring policies and practices, providing a structure or reference for laws and strategies, and as the basis for measuring libraries. While based only on limited material, the article underlines the impact that the Manifesto has, thanks to its content, the clarity of the ideas expressed, and the fact that it has been endorsed by UNESCO. In the coming year, there will be many opportunities to raise awareness of the Manifesto, and discuss its application and relevance.