Libraries as a sustainable development tool

Abstract

This paper argues for two concerted initiatives. First, an affirmation and reframing of libraries as a catalyst in community development: civic or "Third" spaces that cater to lifelong learning, disaster relief, and community gatherings as demonstrated locally and through international case studies. Second, the use of an interlocking set of adaptive frameworks of Public-Private Partnerships and Good Governance, Knowledge Hubs and Collaborative Community Clusters, and Group Development Punctuated Equilibrium that leverage the role and assets of libraries as tools for addressing sustainable development challenges in the countries such as the Philippines.