For the position of Governing Board Member 2015-2017

2nd Term

Andrew McDonaldI will pursue a number of important themes in my second term on the Governing Board to help shape an even stronger international organisation with even greater influence and impact.

New strategy and vision

We must strengthen our role as the trusted global voice of the library and information profession, committed to improving access to information and cultural heritage resources for the global community in a rapidly-changing environment. Key strategic themes include: access to digital and print information; advocacy in a multi-stakeholder society; the capacity to represent the profession; the structure and culture of IFLA; and issues facing member libraries and users.                                                                        

Advocacy

IFLA must make the right strategic links at local, national and international levels and encourage members to actively engage with advocacy. Having improved communication and responsiveness, IFLA must now become more influential while ensuring the continued success of its annual Congresses.

Building capacity

We must raise the voice of libraries nationally and internationally by building stronger library associations, enhancing professional capacity and developing our international leaders programme.

Trend Report

This has stimulated considerable discussion and debate around the world. The Report identifies various trends shaping the information society: access to information; online education; privacy and data protection; hyper-connected societies; and new technologies. We now need to translate these challenges into positive actions and influence the ever-changing information environment. Copyright, internet surveillance, privacy, data protection, open access and e-books all remain important priorities. 

Lyon Declaration

Our unique opportunity to influence the United Nations post-2015 development agenda. We say ‘everyone should have access to, and be able to understand, use and share the information that is necessary to promote sustainable development and democratic societies’. Once adopted, we can transform the impact of libraries and associations on cultural, economic, educational, political and social development.

Andrew McDonald
Head of Newsam Library and Archive Services
Institute of Education
University of London
London, United Kingdom