Abandoned libraryThe world is witnessing a worrisome wave of policies and censorship impacting cultural spaces, especially libraries, to the detriment of the well-being of citizens, particularly, those from marginalized populations. Despite the dedication of librarians –who are passionate about providing their communities access to quality collections, programs, and services to improve their lives– the profession is often underpaid, underappreciated, and librarians must fight constantly for resources to serve those most in need. Although this happens throughout the entire world, librarians and patrons who work with children and youth in Latin America –Nicaragua, El Salvador, Colombia, and Argentina in particular– have raised their voices regarding the dire situations in which many of their community and people’s libraries are in, with their staff enduring impossible working conditions, and libraries facing closure without prior notice or reasonable grounds.

Thus, we invite short papers in Spanish and English that address challenges to libraries and librarianship, particularly in the context of censorship, difficult working conditions, service to marginalized populations, and the struggles for access to resources and services.

What are we looking for?

  • Not too long 

Aim for a maximum of 1000 words. Shorter articles are welcome too! 

  • Easy language 

Use easy-to-understand language. Avoid abbreviations or make sure to explain what they mean. If English is not your mother tongue, please do not worry about making it perfect, we can edit for you! Also, remember to enter your name, title and institution (if applicable) so that everyone knows who’s writing. 

  • Use images 

Images draw attention to your text and help you get your message across. Each article must contain at least one image with good quality. If you have many, we may not be able to use them all. 

  • Submit your article 

Send your finished article to [email protected] before April 1st. If images are placed in the text document, remember to attach them separately to the mail in high resolution as well. 

  • Editing and proofreading 

All articles will be proofread and edited in order to fit the newsletter format.

  • Publishing 

The newsletter will be published/distributed here:  

  • IFLA website: https://www.ifla.org/units/libraries-for-children-and-ya/  IFLA
  • Children & YA mailing list: https://mail.iflalists.org/wws/info/child-ya  
  • IFLA-L mailing list: https://mail.iflalists.org/wws/info/ifla-l  
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IFLACYA  
  • Feel free to spread the newsletter within your own networks as well.

Thank you very much for contributing to our newsletter!