The aim of the project Libraries for All –ESME has been to initiate an EU-wide upgrade of local public libraries into “Libraries for All” with a European perspective. EU-wide local public libraries usually have a similar setup, comparable structures and the common goal of serving the local community in easily accessible places of learning and communications. By upgrading local public libraries into "Libraries for All", the symbolic cultural capital of the local migrant population would become an integral part of local public libraries. By serving the community as a whole, the libraries sought to enhance into local contact points for implementing common European integration strategies.

The pilot projects included libraries in four different European regions (Austria, Sweden, Germany and Czech Republic). A central focus was placed on the introduction of Advisory Boards for Multiculturalism (ABMs). The ABMs consisted of the librarians and specifically qualified members of the local immigrant communities. Their effort resulted in many diverse activities undertaken by the participating libraries.

Over a two-year period, the participating libraries and non-governmental organisations promoted the transformation of local public libraries into intercultural and multilingual libraries for all. As a result of the project Manual and Guidelines have been published and are now available for download in four language versions in the “Products” section.

Best Practices IFLA - The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions [IFLA] IFLA (The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions) is the leading international body representing the interests of library and information services and their users. It is the global voice of the library and information profession. ...more»   DBV - Deutscher Bibliotheksverband / German Library Association [DBV, Germany] The German Library Association (DBV) has been working over 60 years for libraries in Germany. The association has 2,000 member libraries nationwide. Its goal is to make the impact of libraries in cultural and educational visible and to strengthen their role in society. ...more»   ...see more Best Practices

Relevant Sources Aktionskisten Interkulturelle Leseförderung Organization: Stadtbücherei Frankfurt am Main Download guidebook offering concepts for events published by the Public Library Frankfurt am Main - Aktionskisten Interkulturelle Leseförderung / Intercultural Action boxes encourage reading. Available for download in German language here.   Welcome To Your Library Evaluation Report, November 2007 Organization: London Libraries Development Agency Resource type: Report Evaluation report, with accompanying good practice guide of Welcome To Your Library project searches how to connect public libraries with refugees and asylum seekers. ...more»   ...see more Relevant Sources