Libraries as Agents for Sustainable Development

The library is an institution that meets people’s information needs. This has been its role historically: providing a place for people to visit, ask questions, and access and use information resources. In doing so, libraries have long enabled people of all ages to learn and improve their lives. Public libraries have the particular role of meeting community-specific requirements. By applying their existing resources -- including technology infrastructure, knowledgeable staff, and social space -- public libraries are able to offer a range of services that address the economic, health, educational, and civic needs of their users. In doing so, libraries can support the Sustainable Development Goals by acting as agents of change at the local level.