The IFLA conference will prove to be a meeting of minds to discuss the problems we share. A forum where we can also formulate strategies to close the widening gap between groups that have access to libraries and those who do not. An opportunity to increase awareness of the uneven distribution of library and information resources at the global level. Libraries will serve these passers-by of all ages and of all colours with nourishing food. In this house of refuge people come and go, a free flow of stories warms their hearts and enlightens their minds.
Rules are necessary for regulation on crossroads.
But the main aim is the free participation of all and the careful transportation and distribution of goods . Rights and duties have to be balanced to do justice to both creators and users. Amelioration of services must be the orientation for the library profession confronted with new technology. Craftsmanship has never been a question of technical skills solely, but has always required an alert mind and imagination to choose the most favourable conditions for the performance of work and services. Insight into the effects of intense use of new media should lead to new ways of guiding library users as part of their media-education.