Dr. S. R. Lasker Library, EWU Hosts Bangladesh’s First-Ever IFLA Training Workshop
Dec 24, 2025
Dr. S. R. Lasker Library, East West University, successfully organized Bangladesh’s first-ever IFLA Training Workshop titled “Measurement, Evaluation, and Demonstrating Impact of Library Services” on December 22–23, 2025. This landmark initiative was conducted in collaboration with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), aiming to empower librarians, library and information science (LIS) professionals, faculty members, and researchers with practical skills to measure and demonstrate the impact of library services effectively.
The training was led by Dr. Premila Gamage, an IFLA-accredited trainer with extensive experience in South Asia and ASEAN. The Program Chair was Professor Dr. Dilara Begum, Chairperson of the Department of Information Studies and Librarian (In-Charge), EWU. The inaugural session on December 22 featured Air Cdre (Retd) Ishfaq Ilahi Choudhury, Treasurer, EWU, as Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized the crucial role libraries play in society and their importance in knowledge dissemination. Professor Dr. Dilara Begum welcomed Dr. Gamage and the participants, underscoring the workshop's significance for the future of library services in Bangladesh. She also highlighted its aim to strengthen evidence-based practices and enhance service quality across various library sectors. Hosting this workshop for the first time marks a significant step toward aligning Bangladesh’s library practices with international standards.
The workshop focused on building capacity among librarians, LIS professionals, faculty members, and researchers in evidence-based assessment and impact measurement; aligning Bangladesh’s library practices with global standards set by IFLA; and fostering collaboration and networking among professionals to strengthen the country's library ecosystem.
On December 23, Professor Dr. Mohammad Ashik Mosaddik, Pro-Vice Chancellor of EWU, graced the closing session as Chief Guest and handed over certificates to the participants. He commended the library’s initiative and emphasized the need for sustainability in both new and existing services.
A total of 29 participants attended the workshop, representing public and private university libraries, special libraries, public libraries, researchers, and faculty members. This landmark event establishes a new benchmark for professional development in LIS sector in Bangladesh and reinforces East West University’s commitment to advancing global engagement in the LIS field.
