Albanian Libraries in a Changing Society

This paper provides an overview of the Albanian library network within the changing context of the past twenty-two years. The first part traces the development of the library system in Albania by giving a brief review of library legislation and library science education and professional training. The second part provides background information about the implementation of new technologies that facilitated free access to information throughout the country. The paper highlights the leadership role of the National Library of Albania (NLA), which functions as the professional body that oversees all libraries in the country, and its leading role nationwide. The NLA’s engagement in various digitization projects that ensure access to the Albanian national cultural heritage and treasures makes it an important contributor to international projects as well.