CILIP | feb07

What Have Global Trade Agreements Ever Done for Library and Information Workers?

Date: Tuesday 13 February 2007
Time: 6.30 pm
Venue: The Sekforde Arms, Sekforde Street, London EC1
Speaker: Ruth Rikowski

The library and information world is destined for a major shake-up, with commercial competition a distinct possibility. World Trade Organisation treaties are likely to affect fundamentally the way information services operate: behind the scenes, libraries can be used as 'counters' for
negotiating deals on services policy-makers consider more important. Copyright and electronic information are two areas in which the WTO is having an impact but local authorities may, for example, be required to fund private libraries to avoid accusations of 'unfair' monopolies. Many services would be affected, including public lending, internet access, relationships with booksellers and document delivery.

In her presentation, Ruth will discuss the meaning of globalisation and the significance of the World Trade Organisation's GATS and TRIPS agreements, arguing that library and information services, along with other public services (such as education) and intellectual property rights, are being commodified.

Ruth Rikowski has been an information professional for over 25 years, working in both the public and private sectors. She teaches at Greenwich and London South Bank universities and has recently completed books on globalisation and knowledge management.

CILIP in London evening meetings are free and open to all with a professional interest in the topic. Refreshments will be available afterwards. As space is limited, please let us know if you are coming. It would be helpful to tell us how you found out about the event. Contact Phillip Powell at Phillip@montanaroad.plus.com

Updated: 14 January 2007