ABSTRACT
International library development work functioned as an important type of cultural diplomacy, building relationships and serving to both broaden horizons and reinforce prejudices. Exchange programs and work assignments took librarians across the globe and exposed them to different cultures and societies. Some librarians spent years of their career abroad. This chapter examines the experiences of librarians as they traveled and worked abroad and considers what these experiences meant for those who had such experiences. Motivations for working abroad varied, as did their actual experiences. International experiences also helped to forge a more global library profession and to bring awareness to the problems and issues of information.
