Aarhus Libraries on CNN
Aarhus Public Libraries once again attracts international attention due to its innovative development projects. At one of the largest and most used news sites in the world, CNN.com, Aarhus’ efforts to develop the library of the future has become a theme.
Once more, the eyes of the world focus on the libraries in Aarhus Municipality. The libraries have been goal-oriented in their work with cooperation, knowledge sharing and innovation. Through this work, Aarhus’ position as one of the most important hotspots in the world for developing the library of the future has been secured. Thus, Aarhus Public Libraries were awarded the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Access to Learning Award in 2004 for its developmental work. The work continues, and now the Aarhus libraries are mentioned on one of the world’s largest news sites.
‘I am proud that the libraries in Aarhus have a unique status internationally. The development towards Urban Media Space in Aarhus requires continued focus. But first and last our ambition is to develop, in cooperation with users and citizens, the democratic open place for learning and culture, which helps depict Aarhus as a city in motion’, says Alderman for Culture and Citizens’ Services, Jacob Bundsgaard Johansen.
In June, Aarhus held a conference on library development with 220 participants from 19 countries. The libraries have a continued close cooperation with the Gates Foundation and with influential libraries in, among others, England, the Netherlands, Germany, USA and the Scandinavian countries. Likewise, the libraries draw in research-based knowledge through for instance Katrinebjerg (ICT area) and the business community in concrete cooperation projects.
’Challenges are the same for libraries all over the world. Digitisation, new Internet-based formats and services combined with the need for open, neutral spaces providing access to knowledge and culture disseminated through both media and services and in the development of networks, common experiences, and contemplation. I am delighted that we in Aarhus are involved in influencing this development’, says Library Director Rolf Hapel.
‘Next Library’ is the title of the libraries’ development work, which is subsidised by, among others, the Gates Foundation.
For further information contact:
Library Director Rolf Hapel,
Aarhus Public Libraries,Tel: +45 8940 9300
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/09/04/future.library.technology/