66th IFLA Council and General Conference, Jerusalem, Israel, 13-18 August

 

Physics Astronomy Mathematics - Asia Pacific Forum (PAM-APF): Global strategies to assist with equity of access to information resources

Presented by: Jean Poland, Cornell University Library, USA.
Authors: Jeanette Regan, Australian National University, Australia, David Byrne, British Telecommunications plc, England.

Abstract
Globalisation is affecting everyone, especially librarians and information specialists and the researchers that depend on their services. The implementation of technology emphasises the difference between developing and developed countries. Tactics are therefore required to help with the flow of information and this can be achieved through development of networks. However, there needs to be assistance at several levels - ones that can transcend the usual 'twinning' arrangements that are developed at the institution-to-institution level; ones that can put colleagues in personal contact with those that can assist - be they publishers or librarians or other interested parties.

PAM-APF is one example of a network in a specialised subject and geographic area. This Forum uses the strategies of providing publicity, access to international forums and the local voices of those in need.
This paper will discuss the development of the PAM-APF, its successes and how they can be emulated in other areas, and the challenges that have arisen.