Multicultural Libraries

"Creators of online digital libraries have recognized the benefit of making their content available to users around the world, not only for the obvious benefits of broader dissemination of information and cultural awareness, but also as tools of empowerment and strengthening community" (Hutchinson et al, 4).

The International Children's Digital Library (ICDL) was developed by the University of Maryland. According the ICDL website, the project is supported by Library of Congress, NSF, IMLS, Kahle/Austin Foundation, Adobe Systems Inc., the Markle Foundation, and Octavo. The mission of the project is to make literature available digitally in many languages and genres for children ages 3-13 and for teachers, librarians, and parents. Currently the ICDL has 829 children's books available in 32 languages. This allows children to explore new ideas, experience different cultures and read books that may not be available in their local library.
The ICDL is unique in the fact that children are part of the selection and design committee. The children help select books and test usability of the website. The website uses graphics instead of the Dewey decimal system for children to select books.

For more information about the ICDL project check out the Frequently Asked Questions.

Hutchinson, Hilary, et al. "The International Children's Digital Library: A Case Study in Designing for a Multilingual, Multicultural, Multigenerational Audience." Information Technology and Libraries 24 (2005): 4-12.