In 2011 EIFL commissioned a study on perceptions of public libraries in six African countries, including Ethiopia. The results showed a strong positive feeling towards public libraries, and the belief that libraries have the potential to improve the quality of life by providing access to information across a wide spectrum of issues including health, agriculture, education, economic development and e-government.

On this visit to Addis Ababa and Mekele, Monika Elbert, EIFL Senior Policy Advisor, sets out to learn about challenges and opportunities for public libraries and their potential contribution to government led public access initiatives.

Monika will share PLIP's experiences in partnering in public library innovation in Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, with Ethiopian librarians, decision makers and NGO partners. Round table discussions, meetings and library visits will focus on exploring possibilities for partnerships by the public library community with government agencies, business companies, and the NGO sector.