Resourcing Libraries : connecting libraries to EU resources

<< Background >>PL2030, EBLIDA, and PiNA jointly applied for the “Resourcing Libraries” project to harness the potential of European public libraries for connecting, exchanging, and engaging in European-wide collaboration. This was based on research, needs analysis, and prior experience with European library partners. From an advocacy perspective, the consortium recognised the vital role of public libraries in advancing EU policy goals, such as sustainability, inclusion, and democracy at the local level. The project’s aim was twofold: to foster knowledge-sharing on common European topics among libraries in the partner countries, and to support their access to EU resources, particularly project funding with learning and training resources.The project addressed the need of public libraries for better access to EU funding by tackling gaps in information on funding programmes, creating opportunities to connect with European partners, and building knowledge and capacities in project design, application, and management.<< Objectives >>The project aimed to enhance public libraries' participation in EU funding programmes and boost their knowledge and confidence as partners in EU-funded projects. It sought to equip libraries with tools to find partners, develop sustainable proposals, and extend knowledge of funding opportunities to smaller libraries, rural communities, and networks. Through interactive sessions (both online and in person), the goal was to foster connections among libraries locally, regionally, and across borders.The RL:EU project also aimed to highlight public libraries' potential as innovative and dynamic partners in achieving EU policy goals, identifying challenges they face in accessing EU resources and providing policy recommendations and concrete initiatives to address them. Additionally, the project sought to build a sustainable community of library professionals across Europe to exchange ideas and showcase libraries' roles in accessing cultural contents, skill-building, and lifelong learning opportunities.<< Implementation >>The activities were aimed at building libraries’ capacities, sharing knowledge on EU funding within the sector, and researching related library needs and impact in achieving policy goals. The project developed 4 webinars on EU funding opportunities; hosted 22 awareness-raising and capacity-building local events across 12 countries; and organised a hybrid European conference on EU projects on Digital Upskilling for public libraries attended by over 100 participants. The project published a practical workbook to provide knowledge and step-by-step support to libraries looking to apply for EU funds. Alongside this, public libraries were supported by the RL:EU project through a mentorship programme and 10 online group coaching sessions. Finally, policy recommendations were developed based on the project’s EU-wide survey on library needs. Three multiplier events were organised to promote the project results at national level and a policy event to present the RL:EU policy recommendations to EU decision makers and stakeholders. The project website acted as a repository of information, compiling all resources and materials developed throughout the project, as well as a collection of best practice examples for EU library projects.<< Results >>RL:EU outputs include a series of 4 webinars and a practical workbook for public libraries to access EU resources. The project published a research report on the participation of public libraries in EU projects as well as policy recommendations for initiatives supporting public libraries in accessing EU resources. A collection of best-practice examples of EU library projects was compiled on the project website, alongside with other digital resources. Through individual mentoring, all partners supported public libraries in various stages of EU project development. This resulted in the Irish Local Government Management Authority successfully applying for the Erasmus+ accreditation, and the Library of Ptuj in Slovenia receiving their first EU project grant. Over 8 other project proposals have been submitted by participating libraries with results pending. Additionally, EBLIDA successfully applied for the Creative Europe programme supporting cultural networks (ELAN) which will kick-off in 2025. PiNA, together with the Library of Koper applied to the Ministry of Culture’s fund on Media Literacy and successfully developed a set of cards on fake news to play in schools and libraries.