Library Innovation and Novateca

Cahul

September 14, 2017

The Andrei Ciurunga Regional Library of Cahul hosted a celebration of librarians from all over Moldova in the spirit of innovation, modernization, and to promote their libraries as great institutions for social, educational, and information centers of community. This was done to showcase the progress of transforming Moldovan libraries as modern public information resources with the help of the Novateca Program, which came to Moldova in 2014 and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Our Librarian Colleagues

Novateca first assessed the conditions of the libraries in Moldova, and in building partnerships with local librarians and educators, Novateca began a modernizing program for Moldovan libraries.  Within 3 years the program equipped the libraries with modern technology and developed new services and trainings for the librarians to make them sustainable for the long term. Basic internet and computer services were set up, programs for children were started, and professional trainings and seminars were offered to adults to help with employment. In addition, Novateca worked with the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Labor, Family and Social Protection, and the Ministry of Informational Technology and Communication.

And after 3 years, the positive impacts of Novateca’s initiatives on the libraries are undeniably powerful. Looking through the presentations, it is clear that Moldovan libraries have evolved as the informational and cultural hub for their communities. Each libraries offered different varieties of clubs and trainings, such as teaching computer skills to children and the elderly, promoting arts and crafts, music, and other activities. It was so exciting for the librarians to be able to share their activities and learn from each other. Many librarians hugged and greeted each other affectionately, and in seeing the many different programs their colleagues are doing in their libraries, many different ideas were exchanged in the event!

Librarians from Ceadir Lunga participated too :)

Now, libraries all over Moldova serve as not only as a source of information and communication, but also a resource for professional development. Librarians have been trained effectively to carry out trainings for their community, and the librarians have worked hard in raising the awareness in the general public about the many opportunities they offer.

Evan Tracz, Director of Novateca

During the event, many representatives from Cahul’s local administration gave speeches that praised and marveled at the wonderful transformation of Moldovan libraries. Even the director of Novateca, Evan Tracz, spoke to the librarians and praised their dedication and willingness to innovate and serve their communities, as well as recalling how they first began the program, to how far they have come. Now, the libraries of the Republic of Moldova has become true centers for their communities where everyone, regardless of occupation and age, may benefit from modern technologies and services in many fields, such as education, health, agriculture, and more.

And the librarians were so happy! There were a lot of singing and dancing in celebration. 

 

Congratulations to all our librarians! We have come so far. Let’s keep doing our best!