Update: International Strategic Partnership Initiative. Strengthening Connections, Advancing Global Understanding

Museums and libraries are portals to the world. Valued nearly everywhere as trusted community organizations, they are well positioned to help foster cross-border and cross-cultural communication and enhance global awareness. These institutions are centers for intercultural learning, ideal venues for cross-cultural communication, and prime partners for international collaborations. They are rich in collections, exhibits, programs, digital networks, and other resources and have the ability to connect people, institutions, and communities across the globe. Throughout its history, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the largest source of federal support for the nation's museums and libraries, has emphasized the important role that museums and libraries play in facilitating global understanding and the sharing of experiences. In June 2008, IMLS established the International Strategic Partnership Initiative, with the principal goal of strengthening connections between U.S. museums and libraries and their global counterparts. During the course of 2009, IMLS convened three meetings to help the agency move forward in its international work. This update provides information about these meetings and other recent IMLS international activities. (Contains 1 footnote.)