By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
In a world that thrives on connectivity and cultural exchange, the International Librarians Networking Program (ILNP) has once again proven its significance as a beacon of cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge sharing. Prof. Ana Mae Cantel, a librarian of Central Philippine University attended the 2023 program from March 2023-June 2023 spearheaded by the American Library Association. The ILNP brought together librarians from around the world, creating a platform for camaraderie and professional growth.
According to Prof. Cantel, “During the ILNP 2023 cohort, I had the privilege of working with Bayan Abu Sini from the Princess Sumaya University for Technology in Jordan and Tanya Darden from Georgia College and State University, USA. Throughout ILNP 2023, we engaged in a range of collaborative activities. Virtual meetings, webinars, and group discussions facilitated the exchange of ideas, allowing us to learn from one another’s experiences. Projects like co-authoring blog posts and posters, developing online resources, and sharing successful library initiatives were encouraged, fostering a sense of global teamwork and shared purpose.”
Moreover, Prof. Cantel reiterated the following, “The ILNP 2023 experience was not only a professional development opportunity but also a platform for building lasting international relationships. The program’s emphasis on peer-to-peer learning and cultural diversity enabled participants to broaden their horizons and gain fresh perspectives on library-related challenges and innovations. The International Librarians Networking Program (ILNP) 2023 succeeded in its mission to connect librarians globally, fostering an environment of knowledge exchange, collaboration, and friendship.”
According to their website (https://www.ala.org/rt/irrt/irrtnetworkingprogram), “The International Librarians Networking Program (ILNP) is modeled after the International Librarians Network (ILN) Peer Program with the goal of assisting librarians from around the world to network and expand their skills in librarianship through a cooperative and collaborative program. This program is designed to be self guided, allowing participants to form a collaborative relationship with one another for the next four months.”
Aside from skills training, livelihood opportunities, and capacity-building, the beneficiaries are given opportunities for empowerment and self-reliance.