As many as 350 national public libraries, chosen to join the network of libraries “Novateca”, will be outfitted with over 1,000 computers so that they ensure public access to the Internet, while about 800 librarians will take part in IT training courses and courses to develop new library services, IPN reports.

The list of libraries selected at the first stage of the program was presented by the Ministry of Culture and IREX (International Research and Exchange Board) Moldova on June 24.

As many as 31 district libraries and 645 rural libraries took part in the first round of the contest. The finalists were selected by a commission consisting of partners of “Novateca” program and decision makers. About 30 public libraries in every district will be equipped with computers. The number of computers depends on the number of residents.

Minister of Culture Monica Babuc said that within this program, the public libraries during five years will follow the steps that need to be taken to make progress. It is a sign for the local authorities that want to invest in public institutions to mobilize.

“Novateca” director Evan Tracz said that works to modernize the institutions won’t be performed. The libraries will only be outfitted with the necessary equipment. They must be assisted by the local authorities in the renovation works so as to be able to take part in the contest. “The libraries selected in the first round will be equipped between this August and next March. Meanwhile, the libraries that weren’t chosen in the first round can prepare and enter the contest,” he stated.

According to the Ministry of Culture, there are about 1,300 public libraries in Moldova. Over the next five years, “Novateca” will provide computers to more than 1,000 public libraries and will train over 1,500 librarians. The program will continue to extend the network of libraries only if the public libraries are ready to receive IT equipment.

The next selection round will be launched in September.