The WSIS+20 Draft Declaration underlines that digital inclusion is a moving target, where connectivity is just a starting point. We also need multiple channels for getting online, a fresh and relevant offer of content, and community-relevant support and programming to help everyone make the most of new possibilities as they emerge. Delivering on these all in ways that meet needs and respect cultures requires local approaches, able to evolve in response to changing opportunities and expectations.

In this session, aligned with the IFAP Strategic Plan 2023-2029 and in collaboration with IGF Dynamic Coalition Measuring Digital Inclusion, we will explore practical examples of how community institutions are innovating to provide more meaningful digital inclusion based on public access, and draw conclusions about how better to mobilise these in wider agendas.

The event will also be the opportunity to launch a new addition to the UNESCO IFAP Issue Briefs Series: Global Network of Libraries and Local Impact: A Policy Roadmap to Build an Inclusive Digital Future. This has been jointly developed by the UNESCO Information for All Programme (IFAP) and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).

Participants at this session will:

  • Reflect together on the need for and characteristics of successful local digital inclusion infrastructures
  • Explore potential partnerships, notably between libraries and post offices
  • Share insights into how to integrate local efforts into global agendas

REGISTER HERE – in-person only.

The session is organised by IFLA, with the UNESCO IFAP Programme and the ALA IRC United Nations SDG Subcommittee.

Programme

13:20-13:35 Dynamic and meaningful digital inclusion, from the conceptual to the concrete – Mr. Guilherme Canela De Souza Godoi, Director for Digital Inclusion, Policy and Transformation and the IFAP Secretary of UNESCO

13:35-13:50 Human touchpoints for digital services: learning lessons from the work of post offices – Mr Kevin Hernandez, Digital Inclusion Expert, Universal Postal Union

13:50-14:00 Lessons from the Library #1: innovating digital inclusion practices – Dr Anthony Chow, Director of SJSU iSchool will highlight wider work to innovate digital inclusion practices

14:00-14:10 Lessons from the Library #2: counteracting digital exclusion in cities – Diana Price, Central Library Manager, Alexandria, VA

14:10-14:20 Lessons from the Library #3: what we need to integrate wider digital inclusion strategies – Damilare Oyedele, CEO and Co-Founder, Library Aid Africa

14:20-14:40 Discussion: what local digital inclusion infrastructures need from the global digital inclusion agenda

Co-moderators: Loida Garcia Febo, International Library Consultant, Stephen Wyber, IFLA

Recording