Libraries and Society: Russian Government approved the Strategy for the Development of Library Science in Russia

Replenishment of book collections, major repairs of buildings, engagement of young specialists and provision of libraries with broadband Internet - are tasks of the Strategy for the Development of Library Science in Russia until 2030. Its resolution was approved by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

The main goals of the strategy are the modernization of the library system, scientific and methodological support, introduction of digital technology.

It is planned to replenish library collections not only with printed editions but also with e-books and documents. Moreover, the strategy promotes the creation of digital platforms for joint work of libraries, as well as the accumulation of the library, archival and museum information resources in a single digital space. It demands the provision of libraries with the latest software systems and access to high-speed Internet.

Professional development of employees and the engagement of new specialists also should foster the growth of the industry. The development of this direction includes the launch of new programs for post-graduate education and professional retraining, improvement of intentional learning, creation of a system for staffing requirements monitoring in the library sector, and elaboration of measures to attract young specialists to the profession. Besides, it is planned to return the position of a methodologist to the staffing list of libraries and form a unified information system for methodological support.

The strategy provisions will influence the entire Russian library network, including federal, municipal, departmental, scientific, specialized and private libraries. A detailed implementation concept plan will be developed by the Ministry of Culture and proposed to the Government soon.

Mikhail Mishustin announced the approval of the new strategy during a meeting of the Government on March 11. He said that the information resources of libraries should be open and available to everyone. The task is to provide people with the necessary information quickly.

This activity is part of the federal projects "Cultural Environment" and "Digital Culture", included in the national project "Culture".