EIFL (Electronic Information for Libraries) is inviting applications for a new award that recognizes the valuable impact of public library health services.

The invitation, by the EIFL Public Library Innovation Programme (EIFL-PLIP), is open to all public and community libraries in developing and transition countries. The prize is US$1,500 and the opportunity to showcase your service at an international conference or gathering. You can apply in English, Russian, French or Spanish.

With less than a month to go, the deadline – July 31 – is tight.

Libraries everywhere are providing valuable health services, using cutting-edge information and communication technology (ICT). For example, in northern Ghana, a public library uses mobile phones to send vital maternal health care information to pregnant women; in Kyrgyzstan, a public library is leading a campaign to combat TB; in Armenia, patients are asking their doctors questions through their library’s interactive website; in Kenya, health workers and patients have free access to the internet through their library’s e-health corners. EIFL-PLIP wants to make stories like these known, so that innovative libraries whose services improve lives win recognition and support.

If your library is using ICT to improve community health, then this award is for you. To enter, all you have to do is tell EIFL-PLIP your story and show the impact of your service.

For further information and details of how to apply, visit www.eifl.net

EIFL is an international not-for-profit organisation dedicated to enabling access to knowledge through libraries in more than 60 developing and transition countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. EIFL-PLIP supports public libraries to use ICT to contribute to local development and improve lives and livelihoods in their communities. Learn more at www.eifl.net.