The IFLA Sister Libraries Program – an Evaluation of the Development, Challenges, and Progress in the First Two Years of an International Network

Abstract

The Sister Libraries program is an initiative of the IFLA Libraries for Children and Young Adults section. Launched in 2009, it enables children's librarians in any country to find a sister library somewhere else in the world and build a collaborative partnership based on the exchange of views and the development of joint programs. This article describes the development and progress of the first two years of this international network and reports on the evaluation of the program using the concept of a “community of practice.” A longitudinal view is taken of capacity building and professional generosity as a community of practice develops.