UNESCO and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), have launched two declarations of principles which should guide the creation and operations of public libraries and school libraries worldwide.

The Public Library Manifesto, adopted in 1994, proclaims UNESCO's belief in the public library as a living force for education, culture and information, and as an essential agent for the fostering of peace and spiritual welfare through the minds of men and women. 

The School Library Manifesto adopted in 1999, aims to to define and advance the role of school libraries and resource centres in enabling students to acquire the learning tools and learning content that allow them to develop their full capacities; to continue to learn throughout their lives; and to make informed decisions.