UNESCO opens World Digital Library free access during pandemic

Amid the COVID-19 lockdown, UNESCO revealed via Twitter that the World Digital Library (WDL) would be accessible for free, providing a wealth of thousands of documents, photos, and books. Established in 2009 and managed by the Library of Congress with UNESCO’s assistance, the WDL began with over 1,000 documents and has since expanded to feature more than 19,000 items in seven languages. Its goal is to foster global understanding, enhance digital cultural resources, and bridge the digital divide. The collection includes materials from 193 nations, dating from 8000 BCE to 2000 CE. The Library of Congress has collaborated with partners in Brazil, Russia, Egypt, Iraq, and Uganda to facilitate essential digital conversions for these nations.