Creation and Continuation of Library Partnership

Creation and Continuation of Library Partnership

For a library to become part of the Libros Para Pueblos network, it must meet certain eligibility criteria; once those criteria are met, the official authority of the library completes a detailed application form. We support existing libraries and community initiatives to create new libraries. Some of the eligibility criteria are:

  • The library cannot be part of any political, religious or for-profit entity.
  • The application for admission to the Libros Para Pueblos network, as well as all other procedures, must be made directly by the library’s legal or authorized managers.
  • The library should serve the reading community in its area of ​​influence, free of charge, and must be a lending library that enables readers to take books home.

LPP builds collaborative relationships with libraries based on the principles of respect, understanding, transparency and mutual trust. This process requires time, sometimes more than a year, in order for a library to be integrated into the LPP network.

The application process

Before LPP provides the application questionnaire to a prospective library partner, authorities from the library first initiate contact the LPP office, either via email (, telephone (+52 1 951 192 9600), or a visit. This first step is the equivalent of a “letter of interest” and is followed by an interview with LPP’s Program Coordinator, who determines if the library meets the basic eligibility criteria. If that initial qualification is fulfilled, the library applicant then receives a detailed questionnaire with precise instructions to fill out and deliver to LPP.

Evaluation of the application

The LPP Program Coordinator is responsible for evaluating the application and responding to the applicant within a reasonable time. On occasion this process takes time because the applicant needs to provide additional information.


At this stage, libraries that have been approved by the LPP Executive Committee are visited to verify that the conditions of the library are suitable. When appropriate, LPP makes recommendations to assist the library in preparation to receive the initial collection of books. Examples of such recommendations include: improving lighting, ventilation, furniture, shelving, etc.


This stage involves the proactive search for a new sponsor for the approved library. LPP looks to its circle of existing and potential donors and provides them with detailed information about the library, as well as certifies that the library has met LPP requirements and has the endorsement of the LPP Executive Committee.

Initiation of collaborative relationship

At this stage the library and LPP organize a symbolic “inauguration” of the partnership. This event consists of the delivery of the first collection of books in the form of a conditional loan. If the relationship between LPP and the library works well during the first year, the books are automatically donated to the library; if not, the books are returned to LPP.

If the library sponsors are available, they attend the “inauguration” event as special guests. Other invited guests and people interested in learning more about the program also attend.

The continuation of the relationship

Following the official integration of a library into the LPP network, an LPP Regional Coordinator assumes responsibility for on-going monitoring and evaluating of its performance. Their job is to provide on-site training and guidance to support the library personnel in solving some of the day-to-day challenges. In addition, Regional Coordinators ensure that library managers receive announcements and invitations to LPP-organized events. They also provide critical evaluation that helps the staff determine the year-to-year continuation of partnership.