International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA)
Website: http://www.ifla.org/
Category: Professional
Year of Foundation: 1927
Location of Foundation: Edinburgh, UK (International Library and Bibliographical Committee)
Location of Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands
Brief Description: The International Federation of Library Associations describes itself as 'the leading international body representing the interests of library and information services and their users. It is the global voice of the library and information profession.' (source: www.ifla.org; accessed 19 April 2010).
Founding Rationales:
At a meeting of National Library Associations that took place in Edinburgh on 30 September 1927 the International Library and Bibliographical Committee was established 'to select the time and place for international libary conferences and, with the co-operation of local committees, to prepare programs for such conferences; and to make investigations and recommendations concerning international relations between libraries, organizations of librarians and bibliographers, and other agencies.'
Source: International Federation of Library Associations, 'Actes du Comité International des Bibliothèques' (Uppsala: Almqvist & Wiksells Boktryckeri-A.-B., 1931), pp. 13-14.
Evolution of Membership (countries with members):
Sources: YIO; EAIO