Ton van Vlimmeren
Founding member
Ton van Vlimmeren is one of the founders and board members of PL2030. Since retiring from the Utrecht Public Library as director he acts as a library consultant and is chair of the board of a social housing company and of a shelter for homeless people.
During his career he worked as a psychologist, teacher, educational consultant, and Director of Public Education in Utrecht.
He contributed to the International Libraries Network of the Bertelsmann Foundation and to the Global Libraries Program of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
In IFLA he was a long time member of the standing committee of the Metropolitan Libraries Section and he acted also as President of EBLIDA, the European library association
I think it is important that policies, legislation and funding opportunities at the European level include libraries and support their work; stimulate the role libraries can play in society and support innovation to become even more relevant. Informing and lobbying for libraries in Europe and bridging to the national and local level is part of the work of EBLIDA. I am happy support Public Libraries 2030 because with their presence in Brussels, their experience and innovative approach is something we cannot afford to miss.
How we work
Explore How We Strengthen Libraries and Expand Their Impact
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campaign
Advocate
We empower voices
Through targeted actions and campaigns, we amplify the voice and visibility of public libraries at EU level, raising awareness on their vital role in society and in building a stronger, more inclusive and democratic Europe. Ultimately, we aim to secure recognition and support for libraries at EU level.
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Connect
We build networks
PL2030 brings the European library sector together, fostering collaboration, partnerships, and knowledge exchange through initiatives like the Lighthouse Libraries network. This EU-wide network of innovative libraries is at the core of our efforts to build a vibrant, dynamic and interconnected European library community.
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Innovate
We experiment together
Through European-funded projects, PL2030 empowers libraries to explore new themes, technologies, and solutions that drive transformation in their services and communities. Our commitment to innovation and experimentation in the library sector is the core of our work.