The Public Library Innovation Program (PLIP) fosters the development of innovative services to improve people’s lives through the use of technology. This three-year grant program will help public libraries in developing and transitioning countries become centers of community life.

Calls for proposals will be held in two rounds. The first call is designed to gather great ideas that introduce technology to meet user needs and help members of the community improve their lives. Ten of the best proposals will be awarded up to $30,000 USD each for a one-year project.

The deadline for the first Call is 28th of February 2010.

The second Call will test the replicability of the top ten ideas from the first Call. Participating project teams in both rounds will come together for training and to share their experience. In addition, public libraries in any developing and transitioning country will be invited to take part in a special Innovation Award that recognises outstanding achievements. All the outcomes will be widely disseminated in key publications and conferences throughout the world.