Opportunity for People through Equity and Networking
One European network
OPEN is delivered by six national libraries and the CENL EEDI Network Group, working in federation with their existing audiences.
What is OPEN?
OPEN stands for Opportunity for People through Equity and Networking. The project promotes equity, equality, diversity and inclusion (EEDI) in European libraries by developing inclusive collections, enhancing cultural awareness and strengthening community engagement.
By fostering collaboration among national libraries, OPEN creates sustainable strategies so marginalised communities have better access to library resources. The project trains library managers, improves metadata inclusivity, and establishes long-term EEDI practices in the sector.
Activities span five key areas: project management inclusive collections cultural awareness training dissemination Focus groups with underserved communities, a digital platform for cultural exchange, training seminars and media campaigns all build toward long-term adoption of diversity strategies.
OPEN is a first step to implement the aims of the Conference of European National Libraries (CENL) EEDI Network Group, supporting the CENL Strategy 2023–2027.
What does OPEN make?
Tangible outputs for everyone who works with libraries — most useful for public and national library practice.
Tools, lists, and frameworks for everyday practice.
- Comprehensive reports on library collection gaps
- Community-curated reading and resources lists
- A glossary of inclusive terminology
- A digital platform of cultural dialogue
- A comprehensive handbook of best practices
- Practical frameworks for professionals and organizations
Training, mentorship, and frameworks for leadership.
- Cultural awareness training webinars
- An intercultural mentorship program
- Seminars on diversity and inclusion for library managers
- An ‘Ambassadors of Diversity’ initiative
- An inclusive metadata framework
- A guide for inclusive communication and mentorship
Equity. Equality. Diversity. Inclusion.
OPEN promotes equity, equality, diversity and inclusion within communities by reaching out to adult learners from disadvantaged backgrounds and underserved user groups.
Libraries are spaces of trust — often the first place adult learners go to educate themselves. Yet many library services have historically reflected prevailing cultural norms, pushing aside diverse voices. Most libraries are not yet sufficiently equipped to meet the learning needs of adults with cultural differences, persons with disabilities, or members of the LGBTQ+ community.
OPEN supports the CENL vision:
Europe’s national libraries are leading memory
institutions, playing a vital role in the intellectual,
educational, cultural, social and economic
development of the continent, the countries and the
communities they serve.
— Conference of European National Libraries
Get in touch with OPEN.
Questions, ideas, or partnership opportunities? Send a message and we’ll route it to the project team at KB.
Hosted by · KB, National Library of the Netherlands
Domain · open-eedi.eu
Newsletter · monthly project updates