Half of the world’s population lacks access to information online.In our knowledge society, libraries provide access and opportunity for all.

Around the world, public access to information enables people to make informed decisions thatcan improve their lives. Communities that have access to timely and relevant information for all are better positioned to eradicate poverty and inequality, improve agriculture, provide quality education, and support people’s health, culture, research, and innovation.

Libraries guarantee access to information — a cross-cutting target that supports all Sustainable Development Goals  (SDGs).

Our brief sets out the arguments and the evidence.

Download the brief as a PDF.