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International Relations Round Table (IRRT)

IRRT's objective is to provide a framework for information sharing among librarians, library staff and library supporters interested in international librarianship activities at all types of libraries. The IRRT aims to increase communication among OLA members about international visits, exchanges and programs in which OLA members are involved.

 

Horner Exchange Program

The Horner Library Staff Exchange Project is an exchange of library staff between Fujian Province, China, and Oregon, for the purpose of sharing professional knowledge about library and information science. You can view more information about it here: Horner Exchange Program 

 

Recent projects and presentations of the OLA IRRT have included:

  • OLA Conference 2023 panel discussion "Rekindling International Opportunities During Challenging Times" Explore international opportunities for librarians as a way to share your knowledge and expertise while learning about library practices in another culture. The International Relations Round Table will present a panel discussion of current and future international exchange possibilities.  Attendees will hear about the Horner Library Staff Exchange Program with Fujian Province, China; Libros for Oregon (Spanish book buying program at the Guadalajara International Book Fair); working abroad as a librarian; and conducting research/working for an American university in a country outside the US.
  • Confucius Institute presentation 2020 "Through the Eyes of Xiamen and Abeokuta: Oregon Librarians in China and Nigeria" Hear guest speakers’ experiences while visiting Xiamen, China and Abeokuta, Nigeria. Elizabeth Moss will present on how Xiamen libraries serve their patrons and how her perspective of library services changed. Michael Boock will share his engagement with Open Access promotion in Abeokuta, Nigeria, and discuss his experiences with Nigerian music, food, and popular culture. Evan Brengle will focus on some highlights of his trip to Xiamen, including local sights and involvement with arts, culture, and food.
  • OLA-WLA Conference 2019 panel discussion "Collaborating Globally to Chart the Unknown" Explore ways to collaborate and learn from librarians in other countries. Hear how one library system recently created an exchange with librarians in Xiamen, China. Learn about the process for establishing the exchange and the benefits gained through their affiliation with Chinese librarians. In addition, a university librarian will discuss his Fulbright Exchange to Bulgaria, where he conducted research and taught a digital access course. The panel presentation is geared for public or academic library staff interested in developing international relationships with librarians across the globe.