IFLA: Library universality in a divided world

Abstract

The evolution of IFLA had continued steadily in the fourth quarter of the 20,h century. More and more members had joined it from developing countries as well so that IFLA had really become a worldwide organization, The professional program had been enriched under the framework of a midterm program, with the organizational frame of 8 departments, 27 sections, 10 round-tables and 6 discussion groups. Core programs in the major subject fields had been initiated under the control of a permanent staff, with support partly by IFLA and partly by sponsors. The core programs have been playing a definite role in the international libraríanship and its development. One of the main concerns faced by IFLA have been the contents, forms and financial support of library matters in developing countries. Two newiy förmed committies have been dealing with the free access to in¬formation, and with copyright and related legal matters. Presentíy the main tasks are connected with meeting the challenges of the electronic age. The statutes were modified, according to the new requirements, in 2000.