Glob@l Libraries - Bulgaria is designed to facilitate access to information, knowledge, communication, e-contents and community services through Bulgaria's public libraries network. Within five years, the program aims to increase library usage throughout the country and help Bulgarian citizens integrate into the global information society. Public libraries are expected to expand their reach and activities, becoming more attractive places for visitors and playing an increasingly important local development role. The program will support fund-raising and advocacy to help public libraries gain recognition as agents of change and knowledge resource centers.
Glob@l Libraries - Bulgaria will rely on the joint efforts of central government, the local authorities and the non-governmental sector for successful implementation and sustained results.
The planned total program budget is USD 50 million, which includes the foundation grant, an estimated USD 6 million software donation from Microsoft Corp., and a matching contribution of USD 29 million from central and local government agencies.
Glob@l Libraries - Bulgaria will ensure free information and communications technology (ICT) equipment and Internet use for the public in 900 public libraries in towns and villages across the country, and will strive to additionally mobilize resources for ICT equipment for 700 more libraries. Approximately 3,000 library workers from 1,600+ libraries will be trained in IT skills, provision of modern library services and library management. The program shall have a balanced geographic spread to help bridge the socio-economic disparities within and between regions in Bulgaria.
As a result of the combined efforts of local communities and the key program partners, the program shall help modernize Bulgaria's public libraries striving to establish in the public space the image of the new library - one that provides a free package of services including computers and access to the Internet for users, on-line information, local e-content, computer and information literacy training for library visitors, implementation of community projects, space for community work and events, response to specific user needs (children, unemployed people, entrepreneurs); as well as a welcoming environment and client-oriented librarians.
The full support through foundation funding for a planned target of 900 libraries will include: ICT equipment for visitors, a comprehensive training program for library staff, and participation of the library in advocacy, networking, public relations and promotion activities. The software needed for the ICT equipment will be donated by Microsoft.
The partial support through foundation funding for 700 more public libraries will entail: inclusion in the training program and participation in the program's advocacy, networking, public relations and promotion activities. The program team and the program board will continuously monitor the availability of national and international funding sources that could be used to supplement the grant provided by the foundation and the respective matching cost-sharing from central and local government budgets.
The Global Libraries Initiative of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is working to open the world of knowledge, information, and opportunity to many more people. Part of the Global Development Program, Global Libraries works with select countries that demonstrate a need and a readiness to help public libraries provide free access to computers and the Internet, and training on how to make full use of these tools. Microsoft is a partner of Global Libraries and donates software to partners who request it. The initiative is working to transform public libraries into vital resources that can help improve the lives of millions of people.
Glob@l Libraries - Bulgaria Program Fact Sheet (126.23 KB)