The A. Rodríguez-Moñino State Public Library in Cáceres recently hosted the second meeting of professionals from the Extremadura Library Network, an initiative driven by the regional Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sports. This event aims to enhance collaboration among the region's library centres, encourage the exchange of experiences, and address key challenges facing the sector.
Taking place on a Tuesday, the meeting featured remarks from José Luis Gil Soto, the Secretary General of Culture, and Jorge Suárez, the Councillor for Culture of Cáceres City Council. Both speakers emphasised the vital role of libraries as essential spaces for ensuring access to culture, information, and knowledge throughout Extremadura.
This second edition builds on the inaugural meeting held in Badajoz in November 2024, which has since become a key forum for professionals working within the Extremadura Library Network. The primary objective of these gatherings is to facilitate direct contact among the professionals who manage libraries in the autonomous community, promoting cooperation between centres and the sharing of best practices.
Additionally, the meeting provided participants with insights into the latest trends and developments in the library sector, presented by renowned specialists. The programme was structured around two main thematic areas: free access to information in libraries and the Special Plan for Rural Attention. Both issues are currently strategic priorities for the public library system.
Free access to information is a fundamental principle underpinning the work of libraries as guarantors of equal opportunities and universal access to knowledge. Meanwhile, attention to rural areas is crucial for bringing library services closer to all citizens, regardless of their place of residence, thereby contributing to territorial cohesion and combating depopulation.
