My travels across the Netherlands- from the historic centers of Nijmegen and The Hague to the technological hub of Eindhoven—have illuminated a profound cultural ethos defined by innovation, inclusion, and well-being. It is this integrated approach that provides the perfect framework for translating the strategic goals of the IFLA Global Vision into dynamic, community-centered programming delivered from my own global digital platform based here in Germany.
The fundamental link is the shared commitment to Universal Access. Where the IFLA Global Vision advocates for “equal and free access to information and knowledge,” the GLOW Eindhoven festival transforms this intellectual ideal into a tangible, physical reality. By utilizing public streets and buildings as an open-air gallery, the festival effectively dismantles institutional barriers. My digital platform extends this spirit: it removes geographical and time constraints, leveraging the internet in the same innovative way GLOW leverages light and projection to reach a global public.
This dedication to access is reflected not just in GLOW’s public canvas, but in the broader Dutch culture of urban health and well-being I observed. The fierce commitment to planting vibrant green spaces- whether through Wisteria vines climbing narrow canal-side walls in Amsterdam or native Hollyhocks thriving in one-foot-wide beds—shows a deep, almost defiant belief in maximizing beauty and benefit within constrained urban environments. This ethos insists on finding creative ways to enrich the lives of all citizens.
The synthesis of these European insights directly addresses the crucial trend identified in the 2023 EDUCAUSE Horizon Report: Holistic Student Experience Edition: Supporting Student Connection and Belonging with Technology.
This project represents a new personal horizon, as I overcome mental barriers to deliver for myself. Since I am currently unable to pursue traditional employment, I have pivoted to launch my own global digital platform, transforming my current disadvantage into a strategic asset. The platform serves as a remote MLIS practicum, where I design and curate the strategic programming to meet the needs of tomorrow’s global patrons. These workshops are fundamentally a reframing of vulnerability—both my own in sharing this work, and the creative risk participants take in sharing their stories. This intentional modeling of resilience, showcased through my skills in Instructional Design, Digital Curation, and Information Architecture, documents my ability to innovate, manage, and deliver professional results.
By scaling the GLOW-inspired project digitally, I fulfill the IFLA vision by making cultural and intellectual resources universally accessible. More importantly, I demonstrate the self-determination necessary to propel my career, ensuring I can immediately apply my MLIS expertise in a remote, high-demand information role.
References, resources, and inspiration:
EDUCAUSE Horizon Report (2023). HRHolisticStudentExperience
GLOW. (N.d.), Light is a UNIFYING Force (GLOW Eindhoven, the Netherlands)
GLOW. (N.d.), Sunflowers for Van Gogh
GLOW Foundations. (N.d.). The Organization. https://gloweindhoven.nl/en/glow-foundation/
IFLA. (2024, September 3o). IFLA: Global Vision Report Summary- Top 10 Highlights and Opportunities
LUCI Association. (N.d.), Projects and Initiatives
Wikipedia (2025, November 28). Eindhoven. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eindhoven
This is really neat! I like how some of the exhibits are interactive and permanent. This reminds me of a project that I saw in Seattle where poems where placed along playgrounds, but the poems weren’t just for kids. This would be awesome to see in person.
Hi Bernadette,
Yes- I agree, as I came upon GLOW in Eindhoven by accident. I was pleased that it just happened to fall on my birthday week and was excited to share. Seattles public playground poetry sounds intriguing as well. I love mashing the educational play spaces, and exceeding expectations in ways that make people proud of the pplaces they live and frequent. I appreciate your feedback.
@gardenlib So glad you utilized IFLA Global Vision for this reflection. Your work via the platform sounds super interesting.
Michael, Thank you for including it! Exploring several US states, and countries in Europe has really opened my eyes, and given me a personal drive for envisioning a better world through library services, with or without the physical means. I got familiar with IFLA after earning the iSchool International Scholar award, but sadly, due to my status abroad (ironically), I was unable work with IFLA. That hasn’t stopped me from exploring their infrastructure, and their mission for inspiration. I appreciate your feedback!