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May 15, 2013
 A relative handful of librarians have helped 100,000 farmers get $187 million in subsidies via new Internet and computer services in just two years.The Biblionet-affiliated librarians, peppered throughout 30 counties in Romania, helped farmers learn how to use the technology to access financial forms and submit them to the government. The efforts have meant a world of difference for farmers, saving them lengthy trips and expenses and allowing them to be more productive. |
February 24, 2013
 On International Corporate Philanthropy Day, we at IREX salute our corporate partners by recognizing the important roles that businesses can play in making a better world. Whether through fully funded programs, innovative public-private partnerships, direct technical assistance, or a combination of all three, corporate support is a vital complement to our mix of foundation and government funding. |
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February 12, 2013
 An innovative partnership between IREX and Visa Europe has resulted in more than 2,300 Romanians trained in the fundamentals of financial literacy in just a few short months. By learning about personal budgeting, savings, managing credit and debit, and other topics, the participants are now able to make more informed choices about their futures. |
January 2, 2013
 Community and Regional libraries in Transylvania, Romania are redefining modernization by promoting “concept libraries” to create comfortable spaces for patrons. The ASTRA library in Marpod is one example. The library is using unique designs to reinvent modern libraries and showcase local history. |
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November 5, 2012
 Recognizing the need for accurate and organized health information, Romanian librarian Ghiță Vlădoiu developed and launched the Biblio@Sănătate (Library@health) initiative, an online database that provides information about the best doctors in the county as well as national and international specialists. |
August 29, 2012
 Romanian 8th grader Teo Serban recently won a national science award for educational software he designed with the help of his local library and librarian. |
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April 5, 2012
 I was recently given the honor of being named Romania’s Digital Champion by Ms. Neelie Kroes, Vice President of the European Commission for the Digital Agenda. The nomination is a direct reflection of the professionalism, selfless contribution, determination and heartfelt devotion of the entire staff at IREX’s Biblionet Romania program, and to all of the public librarians who work with us on a daily basis to empower Romanians by providing free access to information at the nation’s public libraries. This accomplishment is not about one person, but rather the collective efforts we have brought about to improve the lives of Romanians through access to the internet and improved library services that reflect community needs. |
April 3, 2012
 Services for the aging population are a priority at many Romanian libraries. In difficult economic times, many seniors are struggling with reduced pensions and trying to keep in touch with family members who have moved away in search of work. In Medias, a training program called BuniNet has gone beyond its initial purpose to teach seniors basic technology skills and become a community unto itself, where its members celebrate birthdays, teach each other skills, and learn how to generate income that can supplement their retirement. |
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February 24, 2012
 IREX congratulates Biblionet Program Director Paul-Andre Baran on his nomination to serve as European Union Digital Champion for Romania. In its nominating letter, the Romanian Minister of Communications and Information Society Valerian Vreme wrote, “Through his work, Mr. Baran has constantly advocated for the role of ICT in today’s society and …managed to bring a strong contribution to reducing the Digital Divide in Romania.” |
February 10, 2012
 Online banking is slowly coming to Romania, but many people continue to rely on cash. Research by the Association of Electronic Payments in Romania shows that while 85% of people in urban areas have a credit or debit card, only 56% use it two or more times per month. Rural areas have even fewer opportunities to transition to electronic banking because there are few rural branches for major banks. Libraries are serving as a platform to open possibilities to online payments and other expanded opportunities in personal finance. |
