STM publisher gives grants to innovative libraries in the developing world

The Elsevier Foundation reveals awards of nearly $600,000 in grants to scholarly and library innovation programmes.

As a charitable arm of Elsevier, the scientific, technical and medical publisher, the Elsevier Foundation awards funds across the globe including the support of libraries in developing countries.

Of the 150 applications received, 13 institutions were chosen to receive funding for promoting the efforts of scholars and libraries in the STM fields. The Elsevier Foundation programme, Innovative Libraries in Developing Countries, received six of the grants. The initiative assists institutions in the developing world increase their STM library facilities. This includes improving how information is used to combat AIDS, assist with agricultural development and patient health care. The institutions are based in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The remaining grants were dispersed among the Foundation’s New Scholars programme, a range of initiatives which assist vulnerable academics with family and childcare responsibilities at demanding stages of their careers. “The awardees represent a range of institutions that are pioneering new approaches to childcare, mentoring, networking and participation in scholarly meetings.” the Elsevier Foundation says.

Commenting on the scheme Y.S. Chi, Vice Chairman of Elsevier said, “The Elsevier Foundation is always seeking out new ideas and models to advance the role of science, technology and medicine in addressing critical human needs,” adding, “Whether they are working to put essential scientific information to work in the developing world or helping to encourage and support a new generation of scholars, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to help these committed institutions to create new solutions to some of the world’s most important challenges.”