Library Development in Moldova : the Impact of Tempus Tacis CP 99-20591

Abstract: For two years I participated in a European Commission, Tempus Tacis Project, Library Management Development in Moldova. Sheffield University, University College of Borås and the International Independent University in Moldova / Universitatea Libera Internationala din Moldova were the partners in the project. During the project I undertook research to investigate the change process at ULIM Library. The method I used was action research. This felt natural as the features of the project design coincided with the main characteristics in action research, intervention with the intent to achieve changes, strong involvement by the target partners and emphasis on learning. The project achievements were very good and there is a good chance for sustainable changes. There are several reasons for this. The timing of the project proved to be optimal and the enthusiasm and engagement of the staff was very strong. The history of the country and the history of the ULIM also had a positive impact. The economic situation of the country and the economic system within the university are a serious threat to further changes and development. The most striking result of the project was the emancipation of the librarians from their previous roles. New services such as computerised catalogues and databases, together with new premises with open access to shelves made the competencies of the librarians more visible. A new organisational structure and new assignments for the librarians increased the contact and interaction with both students and academic staff.