Australia and the globalisation of the public library1

Abstract

In the years following the Second World War and in the context of decolonisation and the Cold War, the public library was promoted at a global level by a variety of organisations such as UNESCO, the International Federation of Library Associations and regional organisations such as the South Pacific Commission. This promotion saw both the idea of the public library being championed – as a means to democracy, individual self-empowerment and modernity amongst other things – as well as practical advice and assistance being given by the developed nations. Australia played a role in this, seeking to assist many countries in the region and even further afield to develop their library infrastructure. Australian librarians such as Harold V. Bonny and Lionel Courteney Key were important in this significant chapter in twentieth century library history. This work sought to bring the public library to all the people of the world.