Novateca – Global Libraries AID-117-G-12-00001 GDA with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

February 2012 – January 2019

FY2018 – Annual Report: October 1, 2017 – September 30, 2018

Graduates of the Library Innovators Leadership Initiative organized an outdoor modern library services event to promote the redefined role of libraries in communities across Moldova.

Submitted 16 October 2018 I- Novateca Handoff Plan

International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) AID-117-G-12-00001

Novateca Handoff Plan

Local Public Authorities

Action Institution Status

Support to Public Local Public LPAs have been partners of public libraries in Moldova Libraries in terms of: Authorities since the beginning of the program. LPAs were part of equipment needs, the results of the program, events and exchanges building improvements enabling them to become better advocates and and others supporters of public libraries. Since the beginning of the program, LPAs have responded favorably, investing $504,200 in library infrastructure improvements, modern technology and informational resources.

Central Government

Action Institution Status

Transfer of the E- E-government Will be completed in October 2018 when an MOU is ambassador initiative agency signed between Novateca, e-Governance Agency and Ministry of Education, Culture and Research that will provide both Ministry and Agency’s continuous coordination of and support to the e-Ambassadors network.

Library Leaders

Action Institution Status

Transfer of robotics National Novateca set-up the initiative to create, support and initiative Children’s mentor library Robotics Clubs. This responsibility was Library transferred to the National Children’s Library because it is suited to further support and expand STEM education throughout libraries, organize library robotics contest on yearly basis, and represent libraries in the national and international forums as platform for non-formal STEM education.

Online course on National Center Novateca’s existing advocacy curriculum and content is advocacy for Professional now available for library leaders in a readily available, Excellence interactive and self-paced digital format.

Civil Society

Action Institution Status

Transfer of Online National Library Completed January 2018 Reporting Tool (ORT)

Software donation to National Library Public libraries will be able to order new software from Libraries TechSoup for a small, affordable administration fee which will save libraries up to 99% on new versions of

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software such as Microsoft Windows/Office. The National Library will appoint several staff members with IT and administrative skills as coordinators to administer the software donation process.

II – Program Highlights This year, the Novateca program marked the following key achievements:

• Official launch of 3 FabLabs in , , and . The FabLabs are small-scale laboratories and workshops, equipped with an array of flexible computer-controlled tools and materials that allow users to explore the world of digital fabrication and manufacture products and prototypes for themselves and their businesses. (See Objective 1 below). • Novateca developed the first Advocacy MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) for libraries to transform Novateca’s existing advocacy curriculum and content into a readily available, interactive and self-paced digital format. (See Objective 2) • e-Ambassadors completed a nationwide, 3-month cascade training in e-Governance and e- Services for over 250 librarians. Over 15,000 people in Moldova have accessed e-Services at the library to date. The e-Ambassadors initiative has now 43 national e-Ambassadors coming from national, district, town and local/village libraries, and other 250 local e-Ambassadors, covering 32 territorial-administrative units across Moldova. According to the 2017 Public Library Visitors Survey that Novateca uses to collect data on program impact, 78% of Novateca library users have heard about the possibility of accessing public services over the Internet using a computer or mobile phone and the majority of Novateca library visitors (75%) would like to be trained how to access e- gov services. (See Objective 3 below). • IREX Moldova will implement a voter information project ahead of parliamentary elections, partnering with Novateca libraries to accomplish this goal. This short-term project, the second that IREX will implement with funding from the U.S. Embassy in Moldova in the last year, further reinforces the role that libraries can play as community-based platforms for learning and exchange. (See Objective 5 below). • Completed the four-month European Library Innovators Program (ELIP), an initiative to strengthen the capacity of mid-level library professionals including ties with EU peers as follow on to last year’s successful library leadership summer institute at the Mortenson Center (see Objective 3). • Finalized transfer of the Online Reporting Tool to the National Library, ensuring sustainability of data collection processes in support of data-based library management (see M&E section). • Novateca representatives, the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research and partners attended the 2018 Next Library Conference in Berlin in September to deliver a presentation on the new law and program successes (see Objective 4). Novateca Key Impact Data:

• A Total of 1,082 libraries, representing 81% of the total number of public libraries in Moldova are currently in the Novateca network. • 72% of visitors of Novateca libraries have used digital library technologies, which is 7 times higher than non-Novateca library users. Only 2% of rural residents visiting non-Novateca libraries have used digital technologies in 2017, compared to 75% of rural residents visiting Novateca libraries. • 50% of Novateca visitors pro-actively used digital technologies for personal and professional purposes (government information, agriculture, use of public services, purchasing products and services, etc.), compared with only 8% of non-Novateca visitors. Users of these technologies are:

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reading news online, visiting web pages with entertainment content, creating online content and communicating with family members/friends living abroad or for professional purposes • The services provided by Novateca’s network of public libraries have a significant influence on citizens’ quality of life. Library visitors mentioned that due to use of technology in the library they: saved time (94%), strengthened communication and relationships between families and friends abroad (72%), improved their academic performance (63%), developed skills necessary for employment (37%), raised awareness regarding community issues (71%) and level of participation in community life (69%), receive help in employment (24%), and avoided bribery (68%). For more information, please refer to “Library Use and Information Consumption Patterns in Moldova as Launch of the “It’s My Library” Campaign to promote the transformation of the Moldovan library network and the new Novateca-inspired library law (See Objective 4 below).Part of the Novateca Program.” Objective 1: Libraries have the equipment and technology necessary to provide community access to information.

In its final year, Novateca’s focus for Objective 1 narrowed to provision of library equipment and technology that directly supports the sustainability of Modern Library Services at the local level or leverages further investment from local authorities or other partners. FabLabs Launched in Ungheni, Cahul and Drochia: Novateca launched three ‘FabLabs’/Community Innovation Centers at Novateca libraries in Cahul, Drochia and Ungheni in collaboration with USAID, the Swedish Embassy and the USAID-funded Moldova Competitiveness Project (MCP). FabLabs expand local economic opportunities by setting up small-scale laboratories and workshops, equipped with an array of flexible computer-controlled tools and materials that allow users to explore the world of digital fabrication and manufacture products and prototypes for themselves and their businesses. These laboratories, along with a larger lab in Chisinau at the Tekwill Center, connect Moldova to a network of more than 1,200 FabLabs around the world. Each FabLab received mentoring support from Novateca to ensure that library staff can safely manage equipment, effectively promote its services to the community, and connect the FabLabs to an international network: all which will increase potential for long-term sustainability.

1+1 Initiative: The 1+1 initiative supports active libraries, particularly those that engage in local-level advocacy campaigns, to obtain additional IT equipment in response to patron and partner needs. Participating libraries (including those outside the Novateca network) purchase equipment (e.g., computers, laptops, tablets, multimedia projectors, and multifunctional printers) and then apply to receive an additional piece of equipment from Novateca. The 2017 edition of 1+1 was completed in December. More than 450 pieces of equipment were delivered to 341 libraries across 30 . This exceeded the goal of 180 libraries and included 31 libraries that were outside of the Novateca network.

Based on the success of the 2017 Novateca 1+1 Initiative, another round was held in 2018. 138 libraries from 27 raions received 122 All-in-One computers, 56 tablets, 3 Lego Mindstorms and 5 Makeblocks (after purchasing equivalent equipment themselves). The number of applications was twice as high as expected, which is likely due to the improved advocacy skills of librarians and the increased willingness of Local Public Authorities to make further investments in high-performing libraries that are meeting local needs. In addition, 10 non-Novateca libraries received equipment this round and were included in the Novateca network, expanding the national network of modernized public libraries to 1,082.

Moldovan libraries will receive future software donations from TechSoup after Novateca program

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closure: Public libraries will be able to order new software from TechSoup, after registering on their portal, for a small, affordable administration fee which will save libraries up to 99% on new versions of software such as Microsoft Windows/Office. The National Library will appoint several staff members with IT and administrative skills as coordinators to administer the software donation process. Currently, 927 public libraries have registered, including Novateca pilot libraries and those that participated in the 1+1 initiative. This TechSoup donation will allow libraries to continue to modernize as technology changes and as old technology becomes outdated or not functional.

Objective 2: Strengthened system of library professional development enables librarians to provide citizen-focused, modern services to their communities.

Novateca has systematically built the capacity of key players in the library professional development system – 3 National Training Centers hosted by the National Library, National Children’s Library and Librarians Association of Moldova, 6 Regional Centers of Professional Excellence at libraries – to ensure quality professional development opportunities are widely available as mandated by law. In its final year, Novateca and partners are focusing on increasingly more comprehensive advocacy trainings to enable libraries to secure additional resources from local governments and other partners. Advocacy Efforts: Novateca administered a total of three rounds of Advocacy trainings throughout Moldova, since 2016. Around 400 librarians representing 363 libraries, from 32 territorial units learned to advocate effectively to build local support for library development. The initiative resulted in enhanced multi-dimensional local partnerships by engaging local stakeholders such as government authorities and private sector entities. Public authorities have responded favorably, investing $504,200 in library infrastructure improvements, modern technology and informational resources.

Institutionalizing Advocacy Capacity: Novateca has refined both the content and delivery platforms of advocacy training to ensure librarians attain advanced skills through institutionalized mechanisms that will outlive the program. • IREX/Novateca developed an Advocacy MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) to transform Novateca’s existing advocacy curriculum and content into a readily available, interactive and self-paced digital format. The MOOC launched in September and is located on Udemy. It was created in collaboration with librarian trainers and supported by Strategicus and the Young Initiative Association from . • Raion Library Network Mapping and Impact Letters to LPAs (highlighting data for evidence- based advocacy efforts) were featured at the February Advocacy and Outreach workshop for 13 Library specialists with the Director of the Cluj County Library (Romania). • Professional communications trainings were held, such as a training on institutional communication and visual identity. Over 100 village and municipal librarians participated in a peer-delivered training on using the Canva application (an online graphic design tool) at the National and Regional Training Centers with a representative from a PR Agency. • 10 Library Specialists participated in a study visit to Romania with a focus on advocacy and outreach. Participants attended workshops on volunteer management, advocacy, and outreach communication to learn strategies to ensure that libraries remain visible through the implementation of outreach activities. Library specialists were encouraged to participate in meetings with mayors, find opportunities to showcase the benefits of modern library services for communities, keep advocating for better conditions in their libraries, and continue the development of infrastructure, including equipment replacement needs.

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• Novateca developed a return on investment (ROI) video for librarians on how to calculate ROI for their most popular services. This information can guide library programming and be used to advocate to partners and stakeholders the importance and impact of investing in modern library services.

Retreat for Centers for Professional Excellence: In April, 14 library managers and training coordinators from the Centers for Professional Excellence gathered to evaluate the activities and performance of the Super Training Centers (STCs) in terms of mission accomplishment, management and coordination, educational offerings, professional development, and established partnerships. The National Center of Professional Excellence outlined steps during the training to ensure methodological sustainability, strengthening and enhancing the networking among STCs through an efficient communication strategy. For example, The Law Center for Women presented its activities and potential ways to collaborate with regional libraries at the local level to support the national and regional efforts in prevention of violence against women and girls.

Objective 3: Leading librarians serve as catalysts for library modernization.

The Novateca network of 1,082 libraries is increasingly self-sustaining as more experienced or specialized librarians lead efforts to collaborate and innovate with their peers and other partners for both traditional and online library services.

Modern Library Development Fund: The Modern Library Development Fund (MLDF) encourages the transfer of knowledge, experience, and best practices and provides opportunities for professional development to harness and multiply Novateca’s successes. Novateca’s sustainability strategy aims to transition from centrally-organized activities to a pool of funds to which libraries apply for self-directed, collaborative, low-cost initiatives. Novateca completed the last two rounds of the first edition of MLDF and two rounds of the 2018 edition. Throughout October-December 2017, the 3rd and 4th round of the 2017 Modern Library Development Fund supported the following initiatives:

Service/Event Type Project Examples Service Replication: 17 • ‘Healthy People - Healthy Communities’ replicated in 4 raions. 20 initiatives in employment librarians attended the training that covered issues related to services, health services, IT community health needs assessments and AIDS prevention. skills, digital photography, Participants gathered in a follow-up session to share experiences tailoring, agriculture services, and discuss i organizing engaging informative sessions and social and digital inclusion, selecting topics such as family planning and reproductive health and young journalist clubs. to attract young people.

Awareness Raising Events: • Municipal Library Users Marathon: On October 17, the “B.P. Libraries held 10 events to Hasdeu” Chisinau Municipal Library organized a one-day “Users increase the visibility of Marathon”. 133 participants attended 4 sessions, each delivered modern services. by 3 librarians to develop users’ digital and creative skills, encourage them to use the services of public libraries and develop librarians’ skills to run workshops with new methodological approaches. • Cross-border Library Fair in Cantemir: On November 23, 300 community members and librarians attended the Cantemir raion library’s fair. The fair had six thematic areas: e-Government services, partnerships, services for children, economic and

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agriculture services, advocacy and fundraising, and modern library services. Key library partners were directly involved in organizing the event such as PCVs, LPAs, a local photo-video studio, an employment agency and the Association of Citizens.

Study visits: 4 study visits • Moldovan librarians to improve media literacy based on Latvian took place including study experience: 10 Moldovan librarians who were previously trained visits to Romania and a study on media literacy by the SIMML project (implemented by IREX visit of ten librarians Europe in cooperation with Novateca) attended a two-day study specialized in media literacy to visit to Latvia in November to explore new ideas and skills to Latvia. support media literacy through libraries and enhancing communication strategies. The librarians visited the National Library of Latvia, which has specialized programs for children to develop critical thinking skills, such as fairy tales told from alternative points of view for preschoolers and grade-schoolers. At the Baltic Center for Media Excellence (BCME), representatives provided useful tips and tools on teaching media literacy to various age groups, such as radio programs for seniors, fact checking for adults, and comics for teenagers. For more information access https://baltic.media/. More photos can be seen here. • Moldovan librarians learn from best practices of Romanian libraries working with seniors. On October 25-27, 11 librarians traveled to Iasi, Galati, Tecuci and Braila libraries to exchange the best practices in working with elderly patrons between Balti Center of Professional Excellence and libraries from Romania.

Consultancy: MLDF received • 17 raions applied to benefit from advocacy skills training. multiple requests for advocacy Librarian trainers delivered the three modules of advocacy consulting services. throughout the country.

The 2018 edition of MLDF supports the following activities:

Service/Event Type Project Examples Service Replication: 22 • Loganesti Public Library in Hincesti replicated CodeLab, which initiations of replications develops advanced IT skills and teaches coding using various (including follow-up) of online platforms to children and teenagers. Modern Library Services on • Cahul Raion Library replicated the iCAN library service, which topics such as coding, digital builds library users’ digital skills competencies to access skills, employment employment opportunities. opportunities, financial • Valea Mare Public Library, Ungheni replicated a financial education, health services, education library service that equips community members with and violence prevention. knowledge and skills on financial management. • Toceni Public Library, Cantemir replicated a health-related library service on prevention of cervical and breast cancer. Awareness Raising Events: • Launch of the national awareness raising ‘It’s My Library!’ (see 6 events including career and Objective 4) community fairs. • Library Robo League (See Library Innovations) • Job Fair in • Community Fair in • The ‘Different Library’ event within the It’s My Library campaign in Chisinau (See below)

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Study visits: 7 visits for • Librarians from Discover Bistrita Libraries: In July, 10 librarians to see the librarians from the Glodeni raion visited several libraries from in experiences of libraries in Bistrita county, Romania. The visit focused on the county library’s other countries. IT courses for adults, digital stories, vacation activities, and interactive games. The visit also included insights on how the library attracts users and serves community needs. Romanian libraries showed how volunteers’ involvement in service delivery helps engrain libraries in communities. Librarians from Glodeni also attended meetings with LPA representatives and other local officials to learn about successful advocacy practices. Professional development: • 20 librarians from northern raions participated in the "LabTIC - In 23 activities including Leader Shoes" training on leadership tools, delivered by Balasesti advocacy trainings, Ignite Public Library and Floresti Raion Library. During the three-day trainings, Centers for Librarian training, librarians learned about digital tools for community Professional Excellence members. The librarians will expand this library service to other retreat, e-services training, target audiences in their communities to support empowerment media literacy training, non- of girls and women leaders by developing their IT and formal education training, communication skills. creation of PR offices • Forum of Trainers -- Zoom on Library Users: In September 2018, workshop and training on theChisinau Municipal Library B.P. Hasdeu hosted the fourth robotics. edition of the Forum of Trainers. 40 library trainers from 17 raions attended the event which provided a platform for enhancing their team-building and knowledge sharing skills. Trainers from the Regional Centers of Professional Excellence delivered presentations on design thinking, non-formal education, and applying innovative technologies in modern library services.

Rediscovering the Most Innovative Library Services at the Event “The Different Library - It’s My Library”: On September 23, Chisinau residents and visitors rediscovered the library at a modern, outdoor and interactive event where public libraries from across the country showcased engaging activities, demonstrations, competitions, workshops, interactive presentations and exhibitions. The goal was to promote the redefined role of libraries in their communities as a result of the Novateca program.

The event, supported through Novateca’s Modern Library Development Fund, was organized by graduates of the Library Innovators Leadership Initiative – the 12 Moldovan librarians who participated in a three-week training program at the Mortenson Center for International Library Programs at Illinois University in Urbana-Champaign – in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research, Chisinau City Hall and the Librarians Association of Moldova. The event was part of the public library awareness campaign "It's My Library" (see Objective 4), which highlights the changes and innovations in Moldovan public libraries over the last six years and promotes the recently adopted library law.

The Chisinau central park's paths turned into thematic open-air libraries, allowing participants to visit the different paths with themes such as technology, reading, games, sports, health, and music and dance. Up to 150 librarians and library volunteers familiarized the public with the most innovative services, including robotics clubs, coding laboratories, virtual reality, storytelling, e-Governance services, financial literacy, employment-related services, services for people with sensory disabilities and more.

"I am pleased to witness that our libraries are no longer seen as simple bookstores and have become multifunctional community centers that provide modern services. This significant progress is due to the elaboration and adoption of the new Law on Libraries, as well as the investments in Moldovan public

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libraries over the last six years and partners’ support," said the State Secretary for Culture. Photos from event can be found here.

Coding and robotics continue to prevail in libraries: Basic programming contributes to children’s education by helping them understand STEM-related activities, but also teaches life skills such as problem solving and team work. Youth and librarians continue to expand their knowledge about coding and robotics through library services and other activities. • The replication of ‘CodeLab -- Learn Coding at the Library’ modern service in 37 libraries throughout April and May. The National Children’s Library initiated and coordinated the replication as part of the Library Innovators Leadership Initiative. CodeLab teaches participants basic programming both offline and using online platforms (www.code.org). Additionally, participants learned to develop games and animation through coding, and the basics of how a computer operates. • 12 Moldovan librarians explored the coding and robotics experience of Greek libraries on a three-day study visit to three public libraries in May. Moldovan librarians received training on LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 and Thimble, an online code editor to easily create and publish web pages while learning HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Sessions on crowdfunding provided Moldovan librarians with advanced techniques and tools to initiate and complete effective campaigns. • Over 400 community members learned about modern library services in Soroca in May at a fair where 16 Moldovan librarians, one Ukrainian library representative, and 7 library partners presented modern services such as the RoboClub of the Causeni Raion Library, the FabLab at Drochia Raion Library, ‘Tablets for Children’ implemented by Soroca Children’s Library, ‘CodeLab -- Learn Coding at the Library’ presented by the National Children’s Library and others, from developing digital skills of people with sensorial disabilities to media literacy courses. TV channels Moldova 1 and TVR Moldova broadcasted the fair.

Employment services: Over 45,000 continue to face unemployment and limited prospects for engaging in activities that provide them with opportunities to improve their livelihoods. To address this issue, many public libraries focused their resources on supporting financial education and creating a nurturing and information-rich environment to help library users achieve career success and develop leadership skills. Over the last few years, Moldovan public libraries have become a critical resource for jobseekers, developing sustainable partnerships with national and local employment agencies and NGOs. The network supported over 850 unemployed people in the process of learning how to use IT to search for a job and prepare the necessary documents to apply for a vacancy. • Briceni Raion Library hosted a Career Fair in May: Three hundred jobseekers and 21 entrepreneurs attended the fair, where 175 job offers were presented in the fields of agriculture, accounting, automotive, textile and other light industry sectors. Seven librarians showcased their services on developing employment skills, and setting up small, local businesses. 5 librarians and workforce agency specialists from Ukraine also attended the event. The Briceni Culture Department in partnership with the Territorial Workforce Agency and librarians from Briceni, Edinet and Ocnita raions organized the event. • Over 50 librarians attended professional development trainings: Telenesti Raion Library delivered the "iCAN for a Successful Career" training on digital tools for 12 librarians from the Ungheni raion. During the three-day training, librarians learned how to use digital tools and will develop at least 4 products following the courses, such as creating a CV online, creating a Powtoon presentation, organizing training sessions in their communities, developing posters in Canva, and developing business cards in Publisher. • Ungheni libraries offer non-formal career counseling services: Gherman public library

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supported 10 libraries from Ungheni raion that will replicate the CareerLab library service. They provided career counseling that targeted youth aged 15-30 and covered 3 major topics: self- knowledge and identifying personal interests and abilities, developing leadership skills, and using IT tools to search for job opportunities. A follow-up session discussed a potential extension and adaptation of the service for users of different age groups, as librarians noted a high interest from beneficiaries younger than 15 years old. The service will be replicated next year. • 64 women and young library patrons found a job and another 15 initiated their own businesses thanks to employment trainings and business management courses provided at eight raion and village public libraries through the Library and NGO Collaborative Community Development Grant supported by Novateca, More than 300 women and youth benefited from the trainings, enhancing their skills in writing a professional CV and cover letter, preparing for a job interview, and learning about individual employment contract terms and policies. Another 120 library patrons participated in a course on efficient business management and learned how to develop a business plan based on the company SWOT analysis and market research, and became familiar with basic accounting, fiscal, and legislative requirements for registering a business.

Librarian-led Leadership: To expand the network of library innovators in Moldova, Novateca continued to provide targeted leadership development opportunities for librarians that build skills and foster professional networks. • The four-month European Library Innovators Program (ELIP) equipped mid-level library professionals with knowledge and skills in modern public library practices. The preparatory phase of the program included a training on Strengthening Innovative Library Leadership and a StoryMaps training that focused on advancing IT and storytelling skills. Then, the librarians travelled to Poland and Lithuania and visited four libraries in each country, ranging from small rural libraries to national libraries that have participated of Global Libraries program there. Novateca organized the tour in collaboration with the Polish Foundation for Development of Information Society and the National Library of Lithuania. The trip helped Moldovan libraries to envision what their role can be once Novateca’s ends in January 2019. Upon their return to Moldova, participants visited the Ungheni raion library, which has been recently renovated with LPA’s investments, Taxobeni village library, and the Riscani raion library that works with Roma communities.

• Library Innovators Leadership Initiative: The Library Innovators Leadership Initiative (LILI) aimed to strengthen capacities and consolidate a network of library leaders and innovators at local, regional, and national levels and includes several phases, including capacity building, a grant component, and experience and content sharing. On October 16, 12 LILI members facilitated a Grants Orientation Conference to begin implementation of innovative library programs in a network of 68 libraries from 26 raions. The current grant proposals focused on provision of modern library services for diverse groups such as people with special needs, seniors, children and youth, women and girls, and topics ranging from financial literacy and coding to personal development and professional skills development. The grants were closed out in May 2018 at an event where 9 LILI members shared their experience initiating and implementing 9 innovative services in 70 libraries throughout Moldova. The leaders reported: o 5,394 direct beneficiaries (children, youth, women, persons with disabilities and elders) and 8,278 indirect beneficiaries. o Community cost-share of 7,902 USD, which represents 17% of the funds invested by Novateca.

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o During the LILI grant implementation, the Telenesti Raion Library received a 75,000 MDL (4,400 USD) grant from LPA, Chisinau Municipal Library won two small grants from the Polish Embassy, and the children’s branch of Ungheni Raion Public Library created a partnership with Victoriabank that offered awards for children involved in grant activities.

Cultivating New Young Librarian Leaders: Young librarians continue to build their leadership skills through professional development opportunities, enabling them to continue to initiate innovative library services that meet communities’ needs.

• 10 members of the young librarians group went on a four-day study visit to Poland in April to learn about Polish libraries’ best practices in delivering modern library services, establishing and maintaining partnerships, and obtaining library modernization funding. The librarians visited the National Library of Poland, Warsaw University Library, two district public libraries in Warsaw, and two children’s libraries. The Polish libraries demonstrated ways to collaborate with users and community members to encourage investment. One example is participatory budgeting, which allows citizens to identify and prioritize public spending projects, and gives them power to direct public funds to the library. The group also met with the Polish Librarians’ Association’s group of young librarians and met the Ambassador of Moldova to Poland. Following the visit, librarians planned to implement a modern service inspired by Polish libraries and transfer knowledge to their networks.

• In May, 11 Young Librarians delivered Ignite speeches highlighting the modern services they implement in their libraries. The speeches covered numerous services such as coding for youth, digital literacy for children, building professional skills through the iCan service, and adjusting the library space to users’ needs. Each librarian previously participated in a two-month course at the National Center for Professional Excellence of Chisinau Municipal Library on public speaking. The course aimed to help young librarians develop public speaking skills to better promote their libraries and services. The librarians will conduct local public speaking trainings to make their libraries welcoming spaces that encourage self-expression.

• Moldovan Public Libraries Consolidate Their Network of Young Professionals: The Library Association of Moldova, with Novateca support, hosted the 3rd edition of the Summer Academy for Young Librarians from July 31 to August 3. The Academy is a non-formal event to strengthen the professional development of young librarians and boost their leadership skills. Nineteen young professionals representing national, local, and university libraries explored new modern library concepts and innovative management practices and tools to help them develop attractive modern services for library users. This included practical sessions on robotics and coding, learning how to use FabLab equipment, and interactive tours at LAM and Novateca partner organizations. Graduates from the Library Innovators Leadership Initiative and the European Library Innovators Program (see above), as well as former Academy participants joined the event and led trainings on innovations and IT, advocacy and outreach, partnerships, PR and visibility, and library management. The Academy was an opportunity to consolidate the network of young library professionals as Novateca begins to wind down. The Novateca team is excited to see the enthusiasm, creativity and energy spread by the young generation of librarians, which shows great promise in their abilities to continue to promote innovation and adopt modern library trends in the future.

World Learning Pilots TAAP with Libraries from Moldova: World Learning representatives visited Moldova from December 11-20 to pilot the TAAP (Transforming Agency, Access and People) toolkit

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through an agreement between IREX and World Learning. The visit included meetings with key library stakeholders, site visits to Regional Training Centers specialized in provision of library services for people with special needs, and a 3-day workshop to pilot the toolkit with librarians from all levels. While many participants found the material and approach challenging, the general feedback from the meeting and workshop was positive and showed that librarians gained a new perspective on inclusion. Following the training, participating librarians raised awareness through TV materials or delivered library services focused on supporting digital literacy and social inclusion among people with special needs. Additionally, two librarians participated in a training on gender-based violence prevention delivered by a national specialized NGO “Casa Marioarei.”

e-Service Training Expands to Local Libraries: From March to May 2018 Novateca implemented a 3- month national cascade training led by e-Ambassadors in each raion to expand the number of local librarians that can assist patrons with accessing electronic governance services. This initiative increased librarian e-Ambassadors’ visibility and role at the national and local level. During the campaign, the national and local e-Ambassadors held a total of 1,090 training sessions for: • 383 other librarians across the country • 2,600 citizens • 569 LPA representatives • 136 business sector representatives

To date, more than 15,000 people in Moldova have accessed e-Services at the library. The e- Ambassadors initiative now has 43 national certified e-Ambassadors coming from national, district, town and local/village libraries, and another 250 local e-Ambassadors, covering 32 territorial-administrative units across Moldova (including Gagauzia), providing national coverage. According to a survey of library visitors, 78% report that they have heard about the possibility of accessing public services over the Internet using a computer or mobile phone and 1 out of 4 visitors have accessed e-services at least once. The most accessed e-services in 2017 were e-Factura (43%), e-Cazier (35%), income tax online reporting (20%) and e-CNAS (15%) and 3 out of 4 Novateca library visitors expressed interest in training on e-services for obtaining documents, checking information, reporting information, using a computer or mobile phone.

Objective 4: National and local government officials and librarians work together to ensure that public libraries are strategically prioritized and funded to maximize their potential as venues for citizen engagement.

Libraries continue to be recognized as relevant partners for public service delivery, especially by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research, which actively promotes the success of the Novateca model to modernize public institutions and engage with citizens.

The “It’s My Library” Campaign Promotes the Transformation of the Moldovan Library Network and the New Law on Libraries: Novateca, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research, and the National Children’s Library “Ion Creanga”, launched the national awareness raising campaign “It’s my library!” on June 14. The campaign promotes and showcases the changes and innovations in Moldovan public libraries over the last six years, encapsulated in the recently adopted law, and spurs further interest and support from communities.

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The launch event featured the premier of Novateca’s latest PSA to familiarize the public with the provisions of the new law and support its role in advancing continued development of public libraries across Moldova. A lively discussion panel was held with key library actors and partners, who stressed the imperative need for future collaboration between all key actors to ensure inclusive, modern services and trainings for communities. The campaign will run until November 2018 and will engage public libraries, local public authorities and partners from all over the country to promote the multitude of opportunities they offer, and generate supporters that will continue the advocacy efforts for modern libraries in Moldova.

Moldovan Library Law in the Spotlight at the International Next Library Conference in Berlin: On September 13, Novateca representatives and partners attended the 2018 Next Library Conference in Berlin. They hosted an interactive session and a panel discussion that covered the seven-year process of revitalizing the Moldovan public library network, from investments in technology, training, and data analysis to promotion of the new library law, which recognizes the modern library’s role as a multi- functional public space that addresses community needs.

During the interactive session, one representative reiterated what the law means for Moldova’s overall development: “This is a law that responds to the needs of both communities and librarians, and contains all changes that we, with ongoing support from Novateca, managed to achieve in the last years... libraries are no longer only about reading and cultural activities--they are offering services tailored for communities and are great platforms for implementation of government priorities.”

The panel discussed relevant aspects of library redevelopment for communities around the world--from infrastructure and professional development, to community-based advocacy and legal frameworks. “Over time, the modernized Moldovan libraries formed a new coalition of community hub organizations, and the law was created to ‘codify’ that change of perspective and culture into a framework that will support the continued development of libraries into the future,” said the Novateca director. Watch the interview with State Secretary for Culture and the Novateca program Director here.

Local Public Authorities Awarded for Best Practices Implemented in Partnership with Libraries: For the past 12 years, the Institute for Development and Social Initiatives "Viitorul" in Chisinau has run a competition to identify, promote and disseminate best practices among local public authorities in the Republic of Moldova. This year, with the financial support of the Council of Europe, the scope of the national competition to recognize excellence in local governance was expanded and among 104 best practices submitted, 4 winners were Novateca partner public libraries. These libraries have been working creatively with national and local government officials to effectively serve local needs and secure strategic funding, maximizing their potential as venues for citizen engagement and empowerment:

● The local newspaper “Curierul de Bravicea” (The Bravicea Courier), developed and distributed by the Bravicea public library. As result of implementing this service, more than 2,500 community members receive the local newspaper and other 16 people received trainings on journalism. ● “The Modern Library – An Intelligent Community,” implemented by the Telenesti Raion Library. As result of this fruitful collaboration between the library and local public authorities, more than 1,000 people were trained in IT, project writing, and development of modern services. The library’s friendly atmosphere and modern technology (including computers, tablets, projectors, robotics kits and Smart Board) has attracted an increased number of users and volunteers to the library. ● “The Library Kitchen,” implemented by the Telenesti Raion Library. As result of this library

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service, over 275 community members (including teenagers, public officials, and teachers) participated in workshops and improved their knowledge about healthy diet and lifestyles. ● The establishment of the Center for Professional Excellence in Balti. Over 240 seniors have improved their IT skills at the “57+IT” library service, and 32 seniors benefited from health trainings and social assistance.

These library-LPA partnerships showcase both the power of the modern library in Moldova, and the deep impact that results with librarians and local leaders work together to assess and address local needs.

e-Ambassadors Networking Reunion: On November 24, 2017 Novateca organized an e-Ambassador Networking Reunion in collaboration with the E-Government Center. The event focused on the main collective achievements of e-Ambassadors in enabling citizen access to electronic governmental services. E-Government Center Director and EGC staff presented the most recent tendencies and tools in ensuring transparent and efficient governance in the Republic of Moldova. Two e-Ambassadors shared their experience in replicating e-services in , Cantemir, Dubasari, and raions. More photos can be found here and here. A final networking reunion of e-Ambassadors will be held in October 2018 where an MOU will be signed to transfer the ownership and full responsibility for the e-Ambassador initiative to the e-Government Agency.

Objective 5: Public support for libraries and access to information is increased by civil society organizations (NGOs and private sector) partnering with libraries.

Library partnerships with civil society continue to provide more opportunities, resources, and innovation for libraries and library visitors. Services have even expanded outside of the Novateca network with additional leveraged funding.

#SuperCoders local events conducted in 37 public libraries across Moldova: #SuperCoders is a program launched internationally by Orange Foundation and adopted as a national initiative by Orange Moldova, the biggest private telecom in the country. Orange and Novateca teamed up to engage public libraries across Moldova to include citizens in the digital revolution, serving as platforms for the organization of regional events. In October 2017, public libraries across Moldova hosted #SuperCoders regional events that had over 1,200 participants across 37 national, municipal, raion and town libraries. Moldovan children ages 10-14 were exposed to coding using the Scratch platform to create their own animations and games. At the same time, parents and family members were trained on internet security to protect their children’s personal data (how to prevent and deal with cyberbullying, parent control apps and programs, privacy and confidentiality settings on social media). The #SuperCoders events received substantial promotion, as well as national and local media coverage.

Librarians, parents and children perceived #SuperCoders as a highly beneficial initiative, helping libraries to attract new users and motivate existing ones to come to the library more frequently, develop coding and IT related skills of children and parents, and show that libraries can be valuable and trustworthy partners for the private sector, according to a post-event survey. Orange representatives stated that Moldova is the first country in the Orange Group opting for libraries as platform to implement #SuperCoders.

English Conversation Clubs: Launched in August 2017 with funding from the U.S. Embassy under a separate grant agreement with IREX, rural library-based English Conversation Clubs (ECC) were

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established to encourage young Moldovan English language teachers to respond to the unmet demand for English language assistance outside of Chisinau. More than 1,700 language learners, 66% of whom are school students, joined the clubs to improve their English skills, enhance their self-confidence, and explore elements of a foreign culture (70% of ECC beneficiaries are 10-13 year old girls). ECC leaders from UTAG, Drochia, and Falesti also opened additional clubs to serve the needs of older populations in their communities on a voluntary basis. The project ended in June with an event to encourage sustainability of non-formal learning and to encourage the teachers to continue to use the library network in order to provide language assistance. Some of the program’s achievements were: • 37 teachers delivered more than 2,300 conversation club sessions in rural communities. • 77 libraries attracted new users and established English language training as a regular library service. • More than 1,700 participants improved public speaking skills, self-confidence and knowledge of a foreign culture. • 26 ECC leaders formed additional English groups in community libraries free of charge. • 187 additional sessions were delivered per month on a voluntary basis.

Memorandum of Understanding with Internews/Media-M: Internews/Media Enabling Democracy Inclusion and Accountability in Moldova Program (Media-M), IREX and IREX Europe signed a trilateral memorandum of understanding to coordinate the activities of the Media-M, IREX Europe’s Strengthening Independent Media and Media Literacy in Moldova Program (SIMML) and Novateca. As a result, a group of librarians trained on Media Literacy will share their knowledge with librarians in neighboring villages or raions to better meet library users’ informational and practical needs regarding unbiased information, information filtering, propaganda, manipulation via critical media consumption and internet security.

Libraries and NGOs Collaborative Community Development Grants Close-out: Novateca launched the Libraries and NGOs Collaborative Community Development Grants Program to provide additional support for the establishment and advancement of sustainable partnerships between libraries and NGOs to develop modern library services that address community needs and interests. Focus areas include economic well-being and employment, civic engagement through digital inclusion, and gender equality and empowerment of women and girls. On December 14, 4 NGOs, 34 libraries, as well as other partners and users met in Chisinau for a ceremony to share their successes and achievements during the last 6 months of grant implementation:

Service Partnership Description and achievements “iCAN AICE and 7 Centers • Development of a MOOC to enhance advanced digital skills Library of Professional among library users, to improve their education and Service for a Excellence employment status. Successful • 12 librarians became facilitators and trained or consulted over Career 100 Moldovans in information processing, communication, content creation, safety, and problem solving. The course is currently available in Romanian and Russian on the Librarian Association of Moldova website, involving both an online Facebook group and traditional training. The iCAN library service was awarded 1st place in the National Contest of Best Open Educational Resources. “Financial PA ADDNET and • 160 community members received training in 3 areas: (1) Education” Ungheni raion Fundamentals of financial education, (2) Entrepreneurship, libraries and (3) 1C accounting software. • PA ADDNET and the libraries partnered with local

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government office and banks to ensure further sustainability of the service and potential extension to other communities. Libraries now collaborate with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry within the National Program for Youth Economic Empowerment, offering free trainings and consultancy, as well as financing opportunities for young people from rural areas aiming to launch or expand a business. Perspective The Honor and The service trains youth and women on employment and s and Rights of the entrepreneurship skills and forge partnerships with agencies, opportunitie Contemporary private stakeholders and educational institutions. As a result: s for youth Woman and Balti, • 19 librarians trainers initiated employment services and women Telenesti, Singerei, using tablets that benefited 340 libraries. Floresti, Bahrinesti, • In October, more than 100 people attended a Career , Corlateni Fair organized at the Balti library. and • 64 service beneficiaries were employed and 15 either libraries registered or launched their own business, receiving legal and financial consultancy throughout the process. Project Library Association In October, 16 raion library directors and methodologists design and of Moldova and attended the second training on project design and managemen libraries from ethnic management. Sixteen project ideas were selected from 24 t minority applicants and began implementation in November. In addition, communities, the Foundation for Development designed an online course on library directors and project design and management through the Google Classroom methodologists platform. LAM and the National Library selected a group of 13 librarian trainers to test the online course and the trainers met in Chisinau in December, for a 2-day ToT on how to further facilitate it. The course will be available on the LAM and the National Library websites. AISE, ODFC and ADDNET signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the participating libraries, committing to ensure the sustainability of both the services developed, as well as of the partnerships created. Photos:1, 2

Although the initiative has officially closed, the Librarian Association from Moldova and the National Library value the impact of these programs and have continued implementation of the Together for the Community project that works with 8 village public libraries in communities with ethnic minorities and 8 raion public libraries. The 16 libraries have been recipients of micro-grants and facilitate various library services from teaching English to public servants and health workers, foreign language learning through coding for youth, social and digital inclusion of children with special needs, promoting and educating on a healthy lifestyle, non-formal education opportunities for ethnic minorities, ecology and preserving the environment, joint activities for mothers and children, to educating youth on tolerant and non-violent behavior.

Moldovan libraries establish new partnerships with Turkish librarians and Global Libraries Program representatives in Turkey: On October 16-19, a group of 38 representatives and beneficiaries of the Global Libraries Program in Turkey (LIFE) visited Moldovan public libraries to learn best practices and survey techniques that help libraries achieve their goal of providing useful and attractive services for communities. During the 5-day visit, the Turkish delegation of librarians met with Novateca staff, representatives of the Ministry of Culture, local public authorities and national key library stakeholders, and went on site visits in the raion and village libraries of Telenesti, Cahul, Crihana Veche, Bravicea, and Tomai. While visiting Moldovan libraries, the Turkish delegation witnessed modern library services in areas of media literacy, agriculture, wellness, education (tablet-based services), IT (trainings

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for seniors, digital storytelling), and services for children with special needs and sensorial disabilities. LIFE staff members and participants reported that the trip to Moldova was the most useful and impressive study tour taken during their program.

Library and Peace Corps Partnerships Continue: As part of the final year transition process, key library stakeholders, the National Children’s Library and the Librarians Association of Moldova are discussing future partnerships with PCVs to promote volunteerism and collaboration with libraries. On a yearly basis, libraries are included as eligible partners for Peace Corps volunteers, thus in 2018 eight libraries were selected as primary partners and six libraries as secondary partners for Peace Corps volunteers. Since the program started, the partnerships between libraries and PCVs yielded results and impacted local communities. For example, a joint initiative between PCVs, the town library, community stakeholders, and Librarians Association of Moldova, made possible the modernization of the space at town library where new library services were delivered to meet the needs of parents with small children.

Novateca Library network leveraged for activities ahead of elections: Libraries are being recognized as a go-to institution to educate the public about their rights and to inform citizens about the voting process: • IREX Moldova wins a voter information project ahead of parliamentary elections: Beginning in August 2018, with funding from the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau, IREX is implementing a six-month ‘Mainstreaming Voter Awareness’ project to inform regional communities about recent changes to the electoral system and help citizens make informed decisions as voters in the elections. In collaboration with the Independent Press Association and the Association of Free Media in Moldova, which will sponsor and promote televised debates between candidates, the Novateca network of public libraries will deliver civic education workshops across the country to help district residents take part in the decision-making processes at the national and local level. More than 600 librarians will join the initiative to help introduce and mainstream voter awareness in communities, offer venues for discussion about the issues that affect Moldova and individual communities, and enable citizens to view candidate debates in neutral public spaces equipped with modern technology. This short-term project, the second that IREX will implement with funding from the U.S. Embassy in Moldova in the last year, further reinforces the role that libraries can play as community-based platforms for learning and exchange. • Moldovan librarians learn the methodology on elections simulation for young people: In June, Hilfswerk Austria, in partnership with Novateca, conducted a practical workshop for approximately 30 librarians to promote young people’s involvement in the civic process. The workshop included an election simulation exercise to allow the participants to analyze the electoral processes from different perspectives by role-playing various actors involved in elections. Librarians are well positioned to help young people learn to defend their opinions, have a firm civic orientation, respect the ethical norms of society, and promote more active involvement in community life. • UNDP Project on “Enhancing Democracy in Moldova through Inclusive and Transparent Elections”: Novateca launched a call for applications for 70-100 librarians from raion and village levels to participate in the internationally-recognized civic and electoral education training Building Resources in Democracy, Governance, and Elections (BRIDGE). Following the BRIDGE TOT in basic civic education, librarians will deliver non-formal trainings to citizens

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through their libraries. This initiative developed out of the partnership that Novateca helped establish between the LAM and the Center for Continuous Electoral Training.

Moldovan Libraries Raise Public Awareness about Corruption by Participating in National Anti- Corruption Campaign: On September 25, librarians from over 30 raions received certificates for their participation in the national anti-corruption campaign “La Punct” implemented by the Independent Analytical Center Expert Group. The campaign aimed to address the phenomenon of systemic corruption in Moldova by increasing the level of information and awareness among the public about the causes and risks of corruption, and especially the actions and policies needed to diminish or even eliminate it. To raise citizen awareness about corruption, librarians from across the country disseminated information materials (posters and infographics) covering the five key areas that corruption influences: the public budget, public procurement, state-owned enterprises, financial systems and the informal economy. Photos of the final event can be found here.

Sustainability: M&E Systems

Novateca continues to make a conscious effort to transfer M&E systems to local organizations to promote sustainability upon program closeout. This includes technical capabilities to use and troubleshoot online reporting systems and creating a network to discuss the culture of data collection.

Impact group (IG): The impact group was created to promote a culture of data collection and use among librarians. It is made up of methodologists, library specialists from culture departments, library directors, and national library representatives. The main goals of the IG are (1) ensuring efficient library data collection using online tools; (2) promoting and facilitating data use for advocacy, promotion and activity planning; (3) improving national library regulations; (4) promoting partnerships between libraries and governmental and non-governmental organizations; (5) advocating for library development. Throughout the year, impact group members have been trained on evaluating libraries' impact, including how to create M&E plans and indicators, develop survey instruments for M&E data collection, and calculate Returns on Investment (ROI) for library services.

Online Reporting Tool (ORT) Transfer to National Library: After revising job descriptions for staff to institutionalize new ORT-related responsibilities, the NL began to administer the ORT independently on January 1, 2018. The National Library sent an official letter to chiefs of culture departments and raion libraries to inform them about the transfer of ORT responsibility, to ask for a designated person responsible for ORT data collection at the raion level, and to ask for a list of non-Novateca libraries that could be added to the ORT. Prior to the transfer, Novateca trained two National Library IT specialists to offer ongoing support on data collection through practical skills and troubleshooting common issues, preparing staff from both the technical and programmatic side to manage the mandatory statistical form “6-c” and ORT systems. The National Library also provided support to local librarians by answering questions, offering additional explanations on ORT indicators, conducting training on administration and maintenance, and holding two information sessions for librarians focusing on installing the system and the database. Additionally, the impact group has suggested multiple recommendations for adjusting the ORT to the 6-c system including: to use the same terminology in both the ORT and 6-c systems, to reword and reduce the number of ORT questions; and to create new questions about partnerships.

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The Novateca Program and National Library Sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Enhance Data Collection, Usage and Access: On August 18, the Novateca Program and the National Library of Moldova, with the support of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to consolidate the national online system of data collection and usage benefiting the entire public library system in Moldova. The document provides a clear framework for additional support efforts to collect and use data on library services, to conduct advocacy and promotional campaigns and enhance library visibility. By signing this document, the National Library officially embraces the responsibility to ensure continuous use of the online systems for data collection developed by the Novateca program, annually evaluate public library impact and performance, provide open access and disseminate key library data, as well as ensure presence of licensed software to all public libraries. At the same time, the Novateca program will equip the National Library with the necessary tools for data administration and storage and offer the necessary informational and technical support to the National Library staff. The MoU signatories have established the conditions for continued development of public libraries in Moldova by using data for evaluation, management and advocacy, and ensuring official software for all Moldovan libraries into the future.

Translation of the International ISO 16439 Standard: In February, Novateca accepted (via Modern Library Development Fund) the initiative on the translation of the ISO 16439 standard (Information and Documentation -- Methods and Procedures for Assessing the Impact of the Libraries) launched by the national standardization body (Technical Committee nr. 1). It was translated in March and as a result, elements of measuring the economic impact of the library and user satisfaction surveys will be included as a part of annual library report and will be used for library evaluation. As a follow-up, the technical committee will conduct two official presentations of the standard during national events and deliver four workshops for librarians focused on the new standard.

III. Library innovations

Robotics Clubs: Novateca continues to mentor 19 robotics clubs throughout the country which have benefitted over 1,200 youth. The FIRST Lego League 2018 Moldova national robotics contest took place in February 2018. Fifty robotics teams, totaling around 500 members, competed at this event, including four library robo-teams (, Causeni, Drujba and Voinova) with 36 representatives (23 men, 13 women, 7 adults and 29 teenagers). The local community and local authorities were key contributors to the contest. Local authorities provided funds for Rezina, Causeni and Drujba libraries for the 2,000 MDL (120 USD) participation fee and Voinova used resources for the fee that they obtained from their successful crowdfunding campaign, which also helped them purchase several PC Tablets.

Although the library robo-teams have only been active for two years, the teams achieved high rankings at the contest: Causeni Library – 3rd place, Drujba Library – 19th place, Rezina Library – 22nd place, and Voinova Library – 28th place. The team from Causeni also received the FIRST Lego League Cup for “Strategy and Innovation” in the robot design category. The event highlighted how public libraries can adopt new technologies, such as robotics, and coordinate with local communities, businesses and public authorities to provide patrons with advanced technology and services along with other traditional services.

Additionally, Novateca conducted a study on the impact of library roboclubs on members’ school

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performance and selection of profession. The Moldova national case study on robotics in libraries was presented during the International Conference on “Comparative and International Education Society” held in Mexico City, on March 25-29, 2018. The study was carried out from November 2017-January 2018 and included 300 face-to-face interviews with robotics club members and 300 interviews with young library visitors from non-roboclub localities to collect quantitative data. Qualitative data was collected through 39 in-depth interviews with STEM teachers of robotic club members and evaluations of their school performance.

Main findings of the study include: • Children who attend roboclubs show a greater interest in STEM subjects – mathematics, physics, computer science than other youth and youth become more curious, active and agile because of participation. STEM discipline teachers have also noticed that club members have developed logical, critical and analytical thinking skills. • Around 10% of roboclub members improved their academic performance in at least one STEM discipline after joining a club. • Robotics clubs develop team spirit, leadership and increase members’ level of self-confidence. Members who have attended robotic clubs for a longer time have a greater tendency to excel in their teams. • The members of the robotics clubs expressed much higher interest in IT related jobs, jobs related to inventing new objects and mechanisms, working with machines and equipment, and jobs where they can learn and propose new ideas.

For more information, please refer to Novateca’s case study “Impact of public libraries robotic clubs on youth.”

Glodeni Children’s Library starts a robotics club and begins to teach robotics a local school: The National Children’s Library is continuing to provide direct support in robotics to libraries newly equipped with robots as part of the ‘1+1’ initiative. In September, NCL representatives visited the Glodeni Children’s Library, a remote library with no prior experience with robotics, except one librarian that had attended a training at the NCL in July 2018.

As part of 1+1, the library chose to equip itself with MakeBlock Mbot robots, instead of the Lego robots that other libraries typically procure. The Novateca Program recently introduced this technology option 1+1 following the successful examples it witnessed of Polish Public Libraries that have been using

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Mbots to provide robotics services. This is an effort to increase the sustainability of these services, as Mbots are more affordable. 12 representatives from Moldovan public libraries had the opportunity to use and be trained on Mbots during a study visit to several Polish libraries back in 2016.

The librarian quickly identified some advantages of using Mbot robots, including: • The robots’ simple assembly which is very intuitive for children of younger ages; • The software used with Mbot robots, Scratch, is also included in the Moldovan school curricula; • The components used with Mbots are simple and compatible with spare parts in most standard devices, for example AAA batteries, Arduino microcontrollers and micro-USB cables.

The librarian at Glodeni Children’s Library succeeded in setting up the initial phase of a robotics club – installing the programming software on library computers and fully assembling the robots, and getting children involved from local schools. She has trained about 10 library patrons to date. During the support visit, the librarian stated: “I’ve been a librarian during all of my professional life and I never imagined I would work at my library with robots and computers. This was quite a challenge, but I must admit that it’s a very captivating activity for me and the children visiting our library. I was also invited by Glodeni School “Lev Tolstoy” to teach robotics to students twice a week. We will combine the school courses with robotics sessions at the library.”

Upcoming Events 1. Final Networking Reunion of e-Ambassadors, October 22, 2018 2. Training for National Library representatives on facilitation of licensed software donations, Mid- November 2018 3. Novateca Closing Event, November 2018

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