After the program, the fellows took a bus to the newly renovated Main Library of the Columbus Metropolitan Library. The reception was held in the new reading room that overlooks a topiary garden.
The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) 2016 National Committee awarded 180 fellowships to librarians and information professionals from North America and beyond to attend IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) 2016 in Columbus, Ohio. The fellows were selected from more than 3,000 applicants and represent 75 countries. The National Committee more than tripled its 2016 goal of 60 scholarships under the efforts of Jim Neal, ALA president-elect, who directed fundraising efforts. Before the IFLA opening ceremony, the fellows gathered for an afternoon of learning followed by a reception at the Columbus Metropolitan Library.
James G. “Jim” Neal, fellowship fundraiser and American Library Association 2017–2018 president-elect, welcomed the fellows that came to Columbus, Ohio, representing 75 countries. “Diversity is our strength, inclusion is our inspiration,” he told them.
Susan Hildreth, Aspen fellow and ALA treasurer, discussed the Aspen Institute report, Rising to the Challenge: Re-envisioning Public Libraries.
Ngozi Ukachi, a fellow from the University of Lagos in Nigeria, listens to the program.
Maureen Sullivan led the second half of the program with an exercise from the Action Guide for Rising to the Challenge: Re-envisioning Public Libraries.
Israel Mbekezeli Dabengwa, a fellow from the National University of Science and Technology in Zimbabwe, listens to the program.
After the program, the fellows took a bus to the newly renovated Main Library of the Columbus Metropolitan Library. The reception was held in the new reading room that overlooks a topiary garden.
Fellow Alia Grant from Pennsylvania State University.
Stephen Spong from Centennial College Toronto talks with Brian Hulsey from Whatcom County (Wash.) Library System.
John Park, a fellow from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, talks with former ALA President Loriene Roy.
