Discuss the objectives and activities of IFLA , IGNOU BLIS SOLVED ASSIGNMENT 2024-25

 Course Code: BLI-221 

Course: Library, Information and Society Assignment Code: AST/TMA/Jul.2024/Jan.2025

QUESTION: -Discuss the objectives and activities of IFLA 

ANSWER : - Objectives and Activities of IFLA in Library and Information Science

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) is the premier global body representing the interests of libraries and information services. Founded in 1927, IFLA has since promoted accessible, innovative, and inclusive information services worldwide. It provides a platform for collaboration, setting ethical standards, and influencing information policies. This article delves into the objectives and activities of IFLA within the field of **Library and Information Science (LIS)**, highlighting its role in fostering a global community of library professionals and advancing library services.

1. Understanding IFLA’s Core Objectives

IFLA's mission centers on developing high-quality library services that are equitable, efficient, and responsive to society’s information needs. Here are the core objectives of IFLA:

- Promote Access to Information: IFLA is dedicated to advocating for free access to information as a fundamental right. Libraries play a crucial role in bridging information gaps, especially for marginalized communities, by providing equitable access to resources.

- Advance Library and Information Science Standards: Establishing global standards and best practices is vital to LIS. IFLA facilitates the development of guidelines, technical standards, and policies that ensure libraries meet quality benchmarks and uphold ethical standards.

- Empower LIS Professionals: Through capacity-building initiatives, IFLA supports the growth of library professionals globally. The organization offers training programs, workshops, and resources that enhance professional competencies, leadership skills, and innovation in library services.

- Support Advocacy and Policy Development: IFLA actively engages in policy advocacy on issues like intellectual freedom, copyright, data privacy, and public access to information. By engaging with policymakers and stakeholders, IFLA helps shape information policies that affect libraries and their communities.

- Encourage International Collaboration: One of IFLA’s core objectives is to foster a global network for library professionals. It provides forums for knowledge exchange, collaborative projects, and partnerships among libraries worldwide, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and innovation.

2. Key Activities Undertaken by IFLA

IFLA's activities are diverse, encompassing advocacy, knowledge sharing, research, and standard-setting. Here are some key activities carried out by IFLA to support libraries and information services globally:

- Organizing the IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC): The WLIC is an annual international event that brings together thousands of librarians, researchers, and policy experts. This event provides a forum for discussing emerging trends, challenges, and innovations in the library sector.

- Setting Standards and Guidelines: IFLA publishes various standards, guidelines, and toolkits that support LIS professionals in delivering quality services. Some significant guidelines include the IFLA Library Reference Model (LRM) and the Guidelines for Library Services to People with Disabilities.

- Advocacy and Policy Intervention: IFLA advocates for libraries in international forums, including UNESCO, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and the United Nations. Through its **IFLA Policy and Advocacy** unit, the organization addresses issues such as copyright reform, open access, and privacy in digital libraries.

- Encouraging Research and Innovation: IFLA promotes research by facilitating access to library studies, surveys, and innovative projects. It sponsors research grants and supports publications like the **IFLA Journal**, which publishes articles on library science developments, challenges, and solutions.

- Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): In alignment with the **UN’s Sustainable Development Goals**, IFLA emphasizes the role of libraries in achieving goals related to quality education, reduced inequalities, and partnerships for sustainable development. IFLA’s **International Advocacy Programme (IAP)** trains library staff to advocate for the role of libraries in sustainable development at national levels.

- Regional and Thematic Sections: IFLA operates through various sections and regional offices that address specific areas of library services, such as academic libraries, public libraries, and digital preservation. These sections support local initiatives, allowing librarians to participate in forums and access resources relevant to their specific fields.

3. IFLA’s Strategic Framework and Key Focus Areas

IFLA’s Global Vision program aims to position libraries as hubs of innovation, resilience, and inclusivity. Its strategic framework for 2019-2024 is structured around four pillars:

1. Strengthen the Global Voice of Libraries: IFLA amplifies the library sector’s voice by engaging in international dialogues on intellectual freedom, censorship, and open access. This goal is achieved through policy statements, declarations, and collaboration with global organizations.

2. Inspire and Enhance Professional Practice: IFLA provides professional development resources, guidelines, and training opportunities to LIS professionals. By enhancing skills and knowledge, IFLA empowers library staff to lead and innovate in their communities.

3. Connect and Empower the Library Field: Fostering a strong global network, IFLA connects LIS professionals through platforms for resource sharing, community engagement, and collaboration. Programs like the **IFLA Library Map of the World** showcase the reach and impact of libraries worldwide.

4. Optimize IFLA’s Organizational Capacity: To maximize its impact, IFLA prioritizes its operational efficiency. This includes improving its outreach, resource management, and organizational structure to better serve the global library community.

 4. IFLA’s Role in Shaping Future Libraries

As libraries face unprecedented changes in technology, information delivery, and user expectations, IFLA’s role in shaping future libraries becomes even more crucial. With the growing emphasis on **digital libraries**, data ethics, and inclusivity, IFLA promotes sustainable, adaptable library models that align with evolving information needs.

The organization also focuses on empowering libraries to play active roles in **digital literacy** and **information literacy**, addressing the challenges posed by misinformation and data privacy concerns. By aligning with these trends, IFLA positions libraries as dynamic, essential institutions in the global information landscape.

5. Conclusion

The objectives and activities of IFLA underscore its commitment to fostering a global library community that is inclusive, innovative, and resilient. Through advocacy, professional development, research, and standards-setting, IFLA enables libraries to serve as pillars of information access, knowledge exchange, and community engagement. By supporting libraries worldwide, IFLA contributes to a world where information is accessible, ethical, and beneficial to all.

In the rapidly changing landscape of Library and Information Science, IFLA remains a vital force, adapting its objectives and activities to empower libraries as centers of learning and information in a digital, connected world.

For other important questions click below links:-

Discuss the implications of first law of library science

https://kanchansolani.blogspot.com/2024/10/discuss-implications-of-first-law-of.html

State the aims and objectives of library associations

https://kanchansolani.blogspot.com/2024/10/state-aims-and-objectives-of-library.html

What do you mean by the term “library and information networks”? Discuss its characteristics and major components.

https://kanchansolani.blogspot.com/2024/10/what-do-you-mean-by-term-library-and.html

Describe the public library and its role in knowledge society

https://kanchansolani.blogspot.com/2024/09/describe-public-library-and-its-role-in.html

Define knowledge society. Discuss the characteristics of knowledge society

https://kanchansolani.blogspot.com/2024/09/define-knowledge-society-discuss.html

Explain the code of ethics in digital era

https://kanchansolani.blogspot.com/2024/11/explain-code-of-ethics-in-digital-era-i.html