Law on Libraries No. 46/2019/QH14

LAW

LIBRARY

On the basis of The Constitution of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam;

The National Assembly promulgates the Library Law.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

This Law stipulates on the establishment and operation of libraries; rights, obligations, and responsibilities of agencies, organizations, and individuals in library activities; state management over libraries.

Article 2. Applicability

This Law applies to agencies, organizations, and individuals of Vietnam; foreign organizations and individuals engaged in library activities or related to library activities within the territory of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Article 3. Explanation of Terms

In this Law, the following terms shall be understood as follows:

1. Libraryis a cultural, information, educational, and scientific institution that implements the construction, processing, storage, preservation, and provision of information resources to serve users' needs.

2. Digital libraryis a library or part of a library with information resources processed and stored in digital form that users can access and exploit through electronic devices and internet space.

3. Information resourcesincludes various types of documents and data such as printed materials, handwritten materials, audiovisual materials, digital materials, microform materials including microfilm and microfiche, special materials for persons with disabilities, and other materials and data.

4. Open information resourceis an information resource that users can access without financial, legal, or technical barriers.

5.Library utilityis equipment serving the needs of users and librarians in collecting, processing, storing, preserving, exploiting information resources, and enhancing the value of libraries.

6. Library serviceis an activity organized or jointly organized by libraries to serve users' needs.

7. Interlibrary cooperationis an activity linking and collaborating among libraries to use information resources, library utilities, results of information resource processing, library information products, and library services effectively and efficiently.

Article 4. Functions and tasks of libraries

1. Constructing, processing, storing, preserving, connecting, and developing information resources suitable for library users.

2. Organizing the shared use of information resources, information products, and library services; disseminating knowledge and cultural values of the nation and humanity; serving research, learning, and entertainment needs; contributing to forming and developing users' knowledge, skills, qualities, and capabilities.

3. Applying scientific and technological achievements, modernizing libraries.

4. Promoting reading culture and contributing to creating lifelong learning environments for the people, building a learning society, raising literacy levels, and fostering comprehensive human development.

Article 5. State policy on the development of library affairs

1. The State invests in public libraries in the following areas:

a) Prioritizing investment in the National Library of Vietnam, provincial public libraries (hereinafter referred to as provincial libraries), and libraries with significant roles;

b) Modernizing libraries; building digital libraries, shared information resources, open information resources; interconnecting domestic and international libraries;

c) Collecting, preserving, and promoting the value of rare and valuable documents, special collections of documents with particular historical, cultural, and scientific value;

d) Organizing mobile library services, circulating information resources to border areas, islands, ethnic minority regions, and economically disadvantaged areas;

e) Training and enhancing the capacity and developing library human resources;

f) Researching and applying advanced scientific and technological achievements in library activities.

2. The State supports investments in the following areas:

a) Providing public services in the library field, promoting reading culture;

b) Maintaining and developing community libraries and private libraries serving the community without profit motives;

c) Transportation costs for library materials serving political tasks, border areas, islands, and economically disadvantaged areas;

d) International cooperation in libraries.

3. The State has policies to encourage organizations and individuals to participate in the activities specified in Clause 1 and Clause 2 of this Article.

4. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on libraries with significant roles prioritized for investment as specified in point a Clause 1 of this Article and rare and valuable documents, special collections of documents with particular historical, cultural, and scientific value as specified in point c Clause 1 of this Article.

Article 6. Socialization in library activities

1. The community, organizations, and individuals shall be provided with conditions to invest, sponsor, assist, donate, and contribute to the development of library undertakings, reading culture, construction, and promotion of reading spaces and grassroots reading rooms.

2. The community, organizations, and individuals participating in library activities shall enjoy incentives as prescribed by law.

3. The community, organizations, and individuals investing in the construction of material infrastructure and equipment for libraries; sponsoring, assisting, donating, and contributing to the development of library undertakings and reading culture shall be recognized and honored according to the provisions of law on competition and rewards.

4. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on reading spaces and grassroots reading rooms as stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article.

Article 7. Restricted Information Resources in Libraries

1. Restricted information resources in libraries include:

a) Information resources containing information that, if widely disseminated, may affect the interests of the State, the rights and legitimate interests of agencies, organizations, and individuals;

b) Information resources classified as state secrets, restricted for use and access under certain conditions, limited access as prescribed by laws on protecting state secrets, accessing information, and archives;

c) Original ancient and rare documents, cultural heritage information resources currently preserved in libraries;

d) Original documents that have been damaged.

2. The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall provide detailed regulations on restricted information resources in libraries as stipulated in Point a, Clause 1 of this Article; and establish principles for using restricted information resources in libraries.

3. Agencies, organizations, and individuals establishing libraries shall be responsible for compiling lists of restricted information resources and their usage in libraries.

Article 8. Prohibited Acts in Library Activities

1. Exploiting library activities to distort the policies, laws, and guidelines of the State, oppose the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; divide the great national solidarity bloc; incite violence, create enmity among ethnic groups and religions; propagate war of aggression; destroy traditional customs and morals; spread superstition; lure library users into social evils.

2. Providing state secret information resources, except where otherwise provided by law.

3. Restricting the right of library users to access and use information resources contrary to the provisions of law.

4. Providing information about library users, except upon request of authorized state agencies.

5. Seizing, substituting, destroying, or damaging information resources.

6. Illegally accessing library information systems and databases; distorting, interrupting, or destroying library information systems and databases.

Chapter II

ESTABLISHMENT OF LIBRARIES

Section 1

LIBRARY NETWORKS

Article 9. Types of Libraries

1. Libraries include the following types:

a) National Library of Vietnam;

b) Public libraries;

c) Specialized libraries;

d) People's Armed Forces libraries;

đ) University libraries (hereinafter referred to as university libraries);

e) Kindergarten libraries, primary and secondary school libraries, vocational education institution libraries, and other educational institution libraries;

g) Community libraries and private libraries serving the community;

h) Libraries of foreign organizations and individuals serving Vietnamese people.

2. Libraries shall be organized in the following models:

a) Publicly-owned libraries funded by the State, ensuring operational conditions, and representing the owner entity shall be organized as public service units or in accordance with the model of the managing agency or organization;

b) Non-publicly-owned libraries funded by Vietnamese organizations and individuals, foreign organizations and individuals, or the community, ensuring operational conditions, shall be organized as enterprises, non-public service organizations, or other models.

Article 10. The National Library of Vietnam

1. The National Library of Vietnam is the central library of the country.

2. The National Library of Vietnam shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Receiving, preserving, and permanently storing publications and press materials published in Vietnam in accordance with the provisions of the law; doctoral dissertations of Vietnamese citizens defended both domestically and abroad; doctoral dissertations of foreigners defended in Vietnam;

b) Supplementing and disseminating materials about Vietnam and outstanding foreign materials;

c) Building a national bibliographic information system; taking the lead and coordinating with libraries of ministries, sectors, and other domestic libraries to build the National Catalogue; publishing, sharing national bibliographic information and digital information resources for libraries in need, except for restricted-use information resources as stipulated by this Law and laws on state secrets protection, access to information, and archives;

d) Conducting scientific research on library information;

đ) Implementing centralized cataloging; taking the lead and coordinating with libraries to build and develop full-text databases and digital libraries;

e) Cooperating and exchanging information resources with domestic and foreign libraries; participating in forums and professional organizations related to libraries as prescribed by law;

g) Providing professional guidance to libraries nationwide according to assigned tasks and performing other tasks assigned by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism;

Article 11. Public Libraries

1. Public libraries are libraries with comprehensive information resources serving the people.

2. Provincial libraries are central libraries of provinces and centrally-administered cities, performing the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Collecting ancient and rare materials; information resources on the languages and scripts of ethnic minorities; local information resources and about the locality;

b) Building databases and digital libraries about the locality; disseminating information resources to serve local socio-economic development;

c) Supporting, guiding, and equipping users with skills to search, exploit, and use information;

d) Organizing reading areas for children and persons with disabilities;

đ) Participating in building district public libraries, commune-level public libraries;

e) Organizing mobile libraries and circulating information resources and library facilities;

g) Organizing exhibitions and other activities aimed at promoting reading culture;

h) Implementing inter-library connections with domestic and foreign libraries;

i) Providing professional guidance to libraries within their jurisdiction according to assigned tasks and performing other tasks assigned by competent state agencies;

3. District libraries shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Receiving information resources and library facilities from provincial libraries;

b) Circulating information resources to libraries within their jurisdiction;

c) Organizing activities to meet the lifelong learning needs of the people within their jurisdiction;

d) Performing other tasks assigned by competent state agencies;

4. Commune-level libraries shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Receiving information resources and library facilities from provincial libraries, district libraries, and other legitimate sources;

b) Circulating information resources to community libraries and private libraries serving the community within their jurisdiction;

c) Participating in building reading culture and forming reading habits among the people within their jurisdiction;

d) Performing other tasks assigned by competent state agencies;

Article 12. Specialized Libraries

1. A specialized library is a library with in-depth information resources on a specific field, sector, or multiple fields and sectors serving civil servants, employees, and workers of the managing agency or organization.

Specialized libraries include state agency libraries; scientific and technological organization libraries; political organization libraries, political-social organization libraries, social organization libraries, and social-professional organization libraries; economic organization libraries.

2. Specialized libraries perform functions and tasks as prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Developing information resources appropriate to the specialized field served; receiving, supplementing, and organizing the exploitation of information resources from research activities, scientific publications, conference materials, seminar reports, research surveys conducted by researchers, the managing agencies and organizations, and specialized journal projects, programs of the managing agencies and organizations;

b) Building specialized internal database and digital libraries; supplementing and purchasing access rights to foreign specialized information resources;

c) Implementing interconnection with domestic and foreign libraries;

d) Performing other tasks assigned by the managing agency or organization.

Article 13. Armed Forces Libraries

1. An armed forces library is a library of People's Army units and People's Public Security units, possessing comprehensive and specialized defense and security information resources serving cadres, soldiers, and civilians in the area, individuals serving prison sentences, studying, and undergoing rehabilitation in detention facilities, educational correctional institutions.

2. Armed forces libraries perform functions and tasks as prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Developing information resources appropriate to assigned requirements; receiving, supplementing, and organizing the exploitation of domestic and foreign specialized defense and security information resources; conference materials, seminar reports, research surveys, and specialized project, program, and journal materials of the armed forces as stipulated;

b) Building specialized internal databases and digital libraries; supplementing and purchasing access rights to specialized defense and security information resources;

c) Implementing interconnection among libraries within the same system, sharing information resources with domestic and foreign libraries;

d) Performing other tasks assigned by the managing agency.

Article 14. University Libraries

1. A university library is a library with information resources serving students and teachers at higher education institutions.

2. University libraries perform functions and tasks as prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Developing information resources appropriate to the objectives, contents, curricula, fields, and disciplines of higher education training, scientific research, and technology development at higher education institutions;

b) Receiving, supplementing, and organizing the exploitation of graduation theses, design projects, master's theses, doctoral dissertations, and scientific research results of students and teachers at higher education institutions; building internal materials, learning material databases, and open learning resource materials;

c) Organizing reading spaces; guiding the use of library products and services; improving skills in searching, exploiting, and using information; reinforcing and expanding knowledge for students, teachers, and management staff;

d) Implementing interconnection with domestic and foreign libraries;

đ) Performing other tasks assigned by the higher education institution.

Article 15. Libraries of preschool education institutions, general education institutions, vocational education institutions, and other educational institutions

1. Libraries of preschool education institutions, general education institutions, vocational education institutions, and other educational institutions are libraries with information resources serving learners and educators within the educational institution.

2. Preschool education institution libraries shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Developing information resources suitable for the age and psychology of preschool children; information needs and materials for educators, managers, and the educational program of the institution;

b) Organizing activities to familiarize children with books and forming reading habits among preschool children; guiding the use of the library, equipping educators and managers with skills in searching, exploiting, and using information;

c) Performing other tasks assigned by the educational institution.

3. General education institution libraries shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Developing information resources suitable for the learning and research needs of learners, educators, managers, and the goals, contents, and programs of study and teaching at each level and program;

b) Organizing reading promotion activities, forming reading habits and skills among learners; guiding the use of the library, equipping learners, educators, and managers with skills in searching, exploiting, and using information;

c) Supporting learning, teaching, research, and organizing other educational activities;

d) Performing other tasks assigned by the educational institution.

4. Vocational education institution libraries and other educational institution libraries shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Developing information resources suitable for the learning and research needs of learners, educators, managers, and the goals, contents, and training programs of the institution;

b) Organizing reading promotion activities; guiding the use of the library, equipping learners, educators, and managers with skills in searching, exploiting, and using information.

c) Performing other tasks assigned by the educational institution.

Article 16. Community Libraries and Private Libraries Serving the Community

1. Community libraries are comprehensive resource libraries established by community residents at community learning centers, cultural and sports centers of communes, wards, towns; village cultural houses; apartment complexes; common living areas of communities.

2. Private libraries serving the community are comprehensive or specialized resource libraries established by Vietnamese organizations or individuals, self-funding their operations.

3. Community libraries and private libraries serving the community shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Providing information resources to the people in the area; receiving circulating information resources from public libraries at various levels to serve the people;

b) Organizing library activities according to the content notified to competent state authorities;

c) Building and participating in developing reading culture for the people in the area.

Article 17. Libraries of foreign organizations and individuals serving Vietnamese people

1. A library of foreign organizations and individuals serving Vietnamese people is a library established in Vietnam by foreign organizations and individuals; it has comprehensive and specialized information resources; it self-funds its operations; and operates in accordance with this Law and other relevant laws.

2. Libraries of foreign organizations and individuals serving Vietnamese people shall perform the functions and tasks prescribed in Article 4 of this Law and the following functions and tasks:

a) Organizing library activities according to the content reported to the competent state agency;

b) Participating in developing reading culture.

Section 2

ESTABLISHMENT, MERGER, CONSOLIDATION, DIVISION, SEPARATION, DISSOLUTION OF LIBRARIES

Article 18. Conditions for establishing libraries

1. A library is established when it meets the following conditions:

a) Clear objectives and service targets;

b) Information resources appropriate to the library's functions, tasks, and service targets;

c) Material infrastructure and equipment ensuring library operations;

d) Library staff with appropriate professional qualifications;

đ) The legal representative of the library having full capacity for civil acts.

2. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on points a, b, c, and d of Clause 1 of this Article.

Article 19. Establishment of public libraries

1. For public libraries that are public service units, the authority, procedures, and formalities for establishing libraries shall be carried out in accordance with the law on public service units.

2. For libraries not falling under the provisions of Clause 1 of this Article, the authority, procedures, and formalities for establishing libraries shall be carried out in accordance with the law regulating the establishment of the main managing agencies of the libraries.

Article 20. Establishment of non-public libraries

1. Organizations, individuals, and community residents have the right to establish libraries when they meet the conditions stipulated in Clause 1 of Article 18 of this Law and other relevant laws.

2. For libraries established in the form of enterprises, the establishment of libraries shall be carried out in accordance with this Law, the Enterprise Law, and other relevant laws.

Article 21. Merger, consolidation, division, separation, dissolution of libraries

1. When merging, consolidating, dividing, separating, or dissolving libraries, there must be a plan to preserve the information resources invested in by the State, funded, sponsored, donated, or contributed to the library.

2. The organization or individual establishing the library has the right to decide on merging, consolidating, dividing, separating, or dissolving the library according to the procedures and formalities of the law on public service units, enterprises, or the law regulating the main managing agencies of the libraries.

Article 22. Suspension and termination of library operations

1. A library may be suspended from operating for a limited period in the following cases:

a) Violating the provisions of Clause 1 of Article 8 of this Law;

b) Having been administratively sanctioned for library activities but continuing the violation.

2. A library shall cease operations in the following cases:

a) Voluntary termination of activities;

b) Being compelled to terminate operations due to the expiration of the suspension period stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article without rectifying the violation.

3. The authority to suspend and terminate library operations is defined as follows:

a) The organization or individual authorized to establish the library has the right to terminate the library's operations in the case specified in point a of Clause 2 of this Article;

b) The organization or individual authorized by the law on administrative violations has the right to suspend the library's operations according to the law and to compel the termination of the library's operations in the case specified in point b of Clause 2 of this Article.

4. The decision to suspend or terminate library operations must clearly state the reasons and be publicly announced at the library's headquarters. The decision to suspend operations must specify the suspension period. During the suspension period, if the library rectifies the violation mentioned in the suspension decision, the organization or individual authorized to suspend the library's operations may decide to allow the library to resume operations.

5. The Government shall prescribe the procedures and formalities for suspending and terminating library operations.

Article 23. Notification of establishment, merger, consolidation, division, separation, dissolution, and cessation of library operations

1. The competent authority that establishes, merges, consolidates, divides, separates, dissolves, or ceases the operation of a library must notify the state agency with the authority specified in Clause 5 of this Article.

2. The notification dossier includes:

a) A copy of the decision of the competent authority or the notification document for the establishment, merger, consolidation, division, separation, dissolution, or cessation of library operations in accordance with the regulations of the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism;

b) Documentation proving compliance with the conditions for establishment stipulated in Clause 1 of Article 18 of this Law for community libraries, private libraries serving the community, and libraries of foreign organizations and individuals serving Vietnamese people.

3. The notification period is as follows:

a) Within thirty days from the date of issuance of the decision on establishment, merger, consolidation, division, separation, dissolution, or cessation of operations for public libraries;

b) Thirty days prior to the date when the library opens for operations, merges, consolidates, divides, separates, dissolves, or ceases operations for non-public libraries.

4. Within fifteen days from the date of receiving a complete and valid notification dossier as prescribed in Clause 2 of this Article, the competent authority must respond in writing; if

5. The authority to accept notification files shall be regulated as follows:

a) The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall accept notification files for central specialized libraries, provincial libraries;

b) Provincial People's Committees shall accept notification files for provincial specialized libraries, district libraries, university libraries, foreign organization and individual libraries serving Vietnamese people with offices within their jurisdiction;

c) District People's Committees shall accept notification files for commune libraries; preschool education institution libraries, general education institution libraries, vocational education institution libraries, and other educational institution libraries; private libraries serving the community with offices within their jurisdiction;

d) Commune People's Committees shall accept notification files for community libraries with offices within their jurisdiction.

Chapter III

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Article 24. Principles of library operation

1. Centering on library users; creating a friendly, equal environment; ensuring access and use of libraries by organizations and individuals.

2. Information resources shall be collected, processed, stored, preserved, and disseminated in compliance with national technical standards and relevant professional standards in the field of libraries.

3. Continuously innovate in information processes, products, and library services based on the application of advanced scientific and technological achievements.

4. Implement inter-library connectivity.

5. Comply with legal provisions on intellectual property rights, science and technology, information technology, cybersecurity, and other related legal provisions.

Article 25. Construction of Information Resources

1. Construction of information resources includes developing and purifying information resources.

2. Developing information resources is regulated as follows:

a) Determining methods and sources for supplementing information resources appropriate to the functions, tasks, and service objects of the library; receiving publications and press materials according to the laws on publishing and press and the functions and tasks of the library as stipulated in this Law;

b) Supplementing, purchasing information resources and database access rights, digital information resources;

c) Collecting open information resources, public information resources, and other valuable online information resources;

d) Connecting and exchanging information resources between domestic and foreign libraries; cooperating in supplementing, sharing, and jointly using databases or access rights to digital information resources;

đ) Converting formats, digitizing information resources for preservation and research according to the laws on intellectual property and other relevant laws;

e) Receiving information resources transferred, sponsored, donated, or contributed by organizations and individuals both domestically and internationally.

3. Purifying information resources shall be carried out according to the regulations of the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

Article 26. Processing Information Resources and Organizing Information Retrieval Systems

1. Processing information resources is regulated as follows:

a) Information resources must be processed according to professional procedures after being supplemented into the library; establishing an information retrieval system to serve management, retrieval, and utilization;

b) Implementing cataloging copies, applying processing results of information resources plays an important role in ensuring accuracy, consistency, and efficiency.

2. Organizing information retrieval systems is regulated as follows:

a) The information retrieval system reflects all information resources through various forms such as indexes, databases; published on the library's electronic portal or website;

b) Ensuring safe storage of information resource processing results;

c) Ensuring updates and ease of use;

d) Ensuring connectivity in information retrieval among libraries.

Article 27. Preservation of Information Resources

1. Preservation of information resources is regulated as follows:

a) Carried out for all information resources during the storage and service processes;

b) Ensuring information security for management, retrieval, and utilization purposes;

c) Implementing preventive preservation, restoration, or format conversion of documents suitable to the library conditions;

d) Digital information resources must be regularly backed up and have data recovery mechanisms when necessary; must be preserved to ensure technological compatibility for data formats;

đ) Cultural heritage information resources and state secrets information resources must be preserved according to the laws on cultural heritage, archives, and state secret protection.

2. The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall provide detailed regulations on this matter.

Article 28. Creation and Provision of Library Information Products and Library Services

1. Creation and provision of library information products and library services are regulated as follows:

a) Ensuring scientific, modern, effective, and suitability with the functions, tasks of the library, and the needs of library users;

b) Ensuring diversity in the form and method of providing library information products and services.

2. Library information products include:

a) Information retrieval systems, bibliographic databases, factual databases, and full-text databases;

b) Bibliographies, specialized information;

c) Electronic portals, websites;

d) Other library information products formed during the processing of library information resources.

3. Library services include:

a) Providing information resources at the library, outside the library including mobile library services, circulating information resources or on the internet;

b) Providing bibliographic information, information guidance;

c) Consulting and training organizations and individuals on library expertise and supporting learning and research;

d) Organizing conferences, seminars, exhibitions, communication, and dissemination of information resources;

đ) Supporting library digital exploitation utilities;

e) Other forms of library services.

Article 29. Library Interconnection

1. Library interconnection includes the following contents:

a) Cooperation in supplementing, purchasing, collecting shared information resources and cooperation in building a joint catalog;

b) Sharing and common use of information resources among libraries; sharing results of processing information resources and library information products;

c) Organizing library service activities to serve library users.

2. Library interconnection is implemented through the following methods:

a) Interconnection by geographic region;

b) Interconnection among groups of libraries with similar functions, tasks, and service targets;

c) Interconnection by field or content of information resources;

d) Interconnection among different types of libraries.

3. Library interconnection is implemented under the following mechanism:

a) Libraries prioritized for state investment will act as core institutions in building, sharing, and exploiting shared information resources among libraries;

b) Cooperation in supplementing, purchasing access rights, and sharing foreign information resources, effectively utilizing state and social funds;

c) Information resources built from state budget must be interconnected and shared among libraries.

4. The Government shall provide detailed regulations on this matter.

Article 30. Promoting Reading Culture

1. April 21st of each year is Vietnam Book Day and Reading Culture Day.

2. Promoting reading culture through the following activities:

a) Organizing activities to form reading habits in families, schools, offices, and organizations throughout the country;

b) Guiding methods and skills for reading and utilizing information resources for children at preschool libraries and primary and secondary school libraries;

c) Developing skills in searching, utilizing, and using information, expanding knowledge for library users;

d) Strengthening interconnection between public libraries and other libraries within the area; accessing and utilizing information and knowledge from shared digital libraries through electronic devices; using mobile library services and circulating information resources.

Article 31. Developing Digital Libraries

1. Building digital information resources based on collecting digital materials and digitizing library materials.

2. Processing, storing, and preserving digital information resources must comply with technical standards and norms regarding information technology, library expertise, and professional practices.

3. Using advanced software in managing digital libraries, designing intelligent interfaces; ensuring openness and interconnection in searching, utilizing, and converting data between storage systems; supporting access and utilization of digital information resources for library users.

4. Providing access rights to digital information resources and other forms thereof.

Article 32. Modernizing Libraries

1. Building and developing modern technical infrastructure to ensure the implementation and operation of digital libraries and library automation.

2. Implementing open-stack reading rooms, automatic material supply systems; self-checkout and return systems; advanced surveillance and security systems; creative spaces for library users; areas for serving children and people with disabilities.

3. Researching and applying artificial intelligence systems, Internet of Things, big data systems, cloud computing, open access, and other advanced scientific and technological achievements consistent with global development trends in library operations.

4. Establishing and providing modern library information products and services that meet user needs; building databases, developing and utilizing digital libraries; implementing electronic information pages, electronic portal pages, and library services on the internet.

5. Creating and providing modern library information products and services that meet user needs; building databases, developing and utilizing digital libraries; implementing electronic information pages, electronic portal pages, and library services on the internet.

Article 33. Library Communication

1. Libraries shall implement communication for the following contents:

a) Information resources;

b) Library information products and library services;

c) Library conveniences;

d) Library human resources;

đ) Other contents related to libraries in accordance with the provisions of the law.

2. Forms of library communication include:

a) Exhibitions, book fairs, presentations of library information products and library services; exchanges, seminars, conferences, symposiums, lectures; organizing cultural and educational events related to libraries;

b) Building public relations and the image of the library;

c) Other forms in accordance with the provisions of the law.

Article 34. Cooperation between libraries and agencies, organizations

1. Libraries shall cooperate with agencies and organizations in the following activities:

a) Preservation of information resources and databases;

b) Exploitation, sharing, and enhancing the effectiveness of the use of library information resources and materials, databases of cooperating agencies and organizations;

c) Organizing various forms of library services to serve library users and the public.

2. Libraries shall cooperate with agencies and organizations on science and technology information and archives to ensure the effective use and preservation of state, enterprise, agency, and organization information resources and data banks according to cooperation programs, contracts, and legal regulations.

3. Libraries shall cooperate with agencies and organizations on culture, tourism, and other agencies and organizations to diversify service forms and library services.

Article 35. Financial sources of libraries

1. State budget funds.

2. Income from library services.

3. Sponsorship, aid, donations, contributions from domestic and foreign organizations and individuals in accordance with the law.

4. Other lawful income.

Article 36. International cooperation in libraries

1. Developing and implementing international cooperation programs, projects, and proposals.

2. Participating in professional organizations, associations, forums, connecting with domestic and foreign libraries.

3. Participating in building, implementing, promoting, disseminating, and educating about laws and international practices regarding libraries.

4. Conducting scientific research, exchanging information resources, experiences, training, and capacity building; applying and transferring technology; promoting and creating conditions for foreign organizations and individuals to participate and support library activities.

5. Other international cooperation activities in accordance with the law.

Article 37. Evaluation of library activities

1. The evaluation of library activities shall be conducted for different types of libraries to serve state management of libraries and improve the effectiveness of library operations.

2. Principles for evaluating library activities are implemented as follows:

a) Objectively, accurately, and in accordance with the law;

b) Truthfully, openly, transparently, and equally;

c) Annually.

3. Criteria, methods, and procedures for evaluating library activities shall be carried out in accordance with national standards.

4. Organizations implementing the evaluation of library activities include:

a) Self-evaluation by libraries;

b) Evaluation by the establishment agencies, organizations, or individuals of the libraries;

c) Evaluation by state management agencies for libraries.

5. The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall provide detailed regulations on this matter.

Chapter IV

RIGHTS, OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF AGENCIES, ORGANIZATIONS, AND INDIVIDUALS IN LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Section 1

RIGHTS, OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF LIBRARIES, LIBRARY WORKERS, AND LIBRARY USERS

Article 38. Rights of libraries

1. Determine the content and form of activities appropriate to the functions and tasks of the library.

2. Exchange information resources, participate in the domestic and international library information system in accordance with the provisions of the law.

3. Refuse requests for using information resources that contravene the provisions of the law, library regulations, and internal rules.

4. Charge fees for library services provided in accordance with the provisions of the law.

5. Research and apply advanced scientific and technological achievements, establish technical infrastructure to meet the requirements of modernizing the library.

6. Mobilize and accept sponsorship, aid, gifts, and contributions to the library in accordance with the provisions of the law.

7. Expand service to library users in accordance with the provisions of the law and library regulations.

8. International cooperation on libraries.

9. Determine the form and value of compensation for damages caused by library users in accordance with the provisions of the law and library internal rules.

10. The National Library of Vietnam, specialized libraries of Ministries, agencies at the level of ministries, government agencies, the Office of the National Assembly, the Supreme People's Court, the Supreme People's Procuracy, and provincial libraries are allowed to retain information resources specified in point a, Clause 1, Article 7 of this Law to serve research activities.

Article 39. Responsibilities of libraries

1. Ensure the implementation of the right to access information and use library services as stipulated in this Law, other relevant laws, and library regulations and internal rules.

2. Utilize library resources effectively.

3. Organize professional and vocational library activities in accordance with this Law and other activities consistent with the functions and tasks of the library.

4. Organize library services; arrange service hours suitable to the living, working, and learning conditions of library users.

5. Publish library usage guidelines and instructions.

6. Publicly disclose information resources and library activities transparently.

7. Implement regular annual reporting and report when requested.

8. Manage, store, and organize restricted-use information resources in accordance with this Law, other relevant laws, and library regulations and internal rules.

Article 40. Rights of library staff

1. Have the right to study and improve professional knowledge, management skills, and modern equipment, means, and techniques used in library operations.

2. Participate in scientific research, professional activities, and social organizations related to libraries.

3. Enjoy salary and preferential policies for the profession as prescribed by law.

Article 41. Obligations of library staff

1. Fulfill the provisions of the law on libraries and other relevant laws, professional and vocational regulations, and internal rules of the organization.

2. Create conditions for library users to access and use information resources and library facilities; ensure equal rights and other rights of library users as stipulated in this Law.

3. Support, guide, and equip users with skills to search, exploit, and use information.

4. Study to enhance professional and vocational capabilities.

5. Adhere to professional conduct rules in libraries.

Article 42. Rights of Library Users

1. To use the library, access, and utilize information resources and library facilities in accordance with the library's internal regulations, intellectual property laws, state secrets protection laws, and other relevant legal provisions.

2. To be exempt from fees at public libraries for the following activities:

a) Using information resources at the library within the borrowing period specified in the library's internal regulations;

b) Searching for information on the internet; receiving information about information resources through the search system or other forms of information reception and search;

c) To receive assistance and advice on finding and selecting appropriate information resources based on their requirements;

d) Other activities as prescribed.

3. To use library services according to the service catalog provided by the library.

4. To be guided in using the library, supported, and equipped with skills in searching, exploiting, and utilizing information.

5. To participate in activities organized by the library for library users.

6. To choose a library that meets their needs in accordance with the library's charter and internal regulations.

7. To lodge complaints and reports regarding acts that limit the right to use the library.

Article 43. Obligations of Library Users

1. To comply with legal provisions and the library's internal regulations.

2. To pay full costs for card issuance and library service usage as prescribed.

3. To preserve information resources and other assets of the library.

4. To compensate for damages as prescribed.

Article 44. Rights of Special Library Users

1. Ethnic minority people shall be facilitated to use information resources in their own language and script in accordance with the conditions of the library.

2. Library users who are elderly or disabled and unable to visit the library shall be facilitated to use information resources at home through mobile library services or postal delivery, online when appropriate, in accordance with the library's operations.

3. Blind and deaf individuals have the right to use information resources as stipulated in Clause 2 of this Article and shall be facilitated to use Braille printed materials, audiovisual materials, sign language materials, or other special materials.

4. Children shall be facilitated to use information resources suitable for their age and grade level at educational institution libraries and public libraries.

5. Children, the elderly, war veterans, disabled persons, and those from poor or near-poor households shall be exempted from library card issuance fees.

6. Individuals serving sentences, undergoing education, or rehabilitation in prisons, compulsory educational institutions, juvenile correctional schools, or compulsory drug rehabilitation centers shall be facilitated to use library information resources at places of detention, study, and treatment.

Section 2

RESPONSIBILITIES OF AUTHORITIES, ORGANIZATIONS, AND INDIVIDUALS RELATED TO LIBRARIES

Article 45. Responsibilities of Authorities, Organizations, and Individuals Establishing Libraries

1. To ensure material, technical, financial, and human resources for the library's operation and development in accordance with legal provisions.

2. To manage the organization and personnel of the library.

3. To promulgate regulations on the organization and operation of the library in accordance with legal provisions.

4. To implement preferential policies for library professionals.

5. To encourage organizations and individuals to submit learning materials, lectures, reference materials, thesis papers, projects, dissertations, research results, and other scholarly works to educational institution libraries and libraries affiliated with the organizations where they study, research, or work.

6. To mobilize state agencies and local authorities to provide free publications, books, and print materials published by state agencies and local authorities to the library.

7. To develop plans for transferring information resources and library facilities in accordance with legal provisions on managing and utilizing public assets in cases of mergers, consolidations, divisions, separations, dissolutions, or cessation of operations of public libraries.

8. To promptly inspect, detect, and handle violations in library activities in accordance with legal provisions.

9. To notify in writing to competent state agencies as prescribed in Article 23 of this Law when establishing, merging, consolidating, dividing, separating, dissolving, or ceasing operations of the library.

10. To ensure fire prevention and firefighting conditions; environmental protection and disaster prevention and control in accordance with legal provisions.

11. To ensure that educational institution libraries have developing information resource sources; to integrate library activities with educational programs suitable for the training programs of educational institutions; to assign direct leadership responsibility for the library and to allocate personnel with appropriate expertise and vocational qualifications for library activities.

12. Foreign organizations and individuals establishing libraries shall be responsible for facilitating Vietnamese employees working at the library to join organizations and enjoy other rights in accordance with Vietnamese laws.

Article 46. Responsibilities of agencies, organizations, and individuals directly managing libraries

1. Develop and implement plans for library activities, develop information resources, and promote reading culture.

2. Utilize investment resources for libraries effectively.

3. Create conditions for library staff to enhance their professional and vocational skills.

4. Implement statistical, information, and reporting systems on library activities to the agency or organization establishing the library and competent state authorities.

5. Organize interlibrary connectivity using appropriate methods.

Article 47. Responsibilities of related agencies, organizations, and individuals

1. Publishing agencies and press agencies shall submit publications and press materials to libraries in accordance with laws on publishing and press.

2. Vietnamese citizens defending doctoral dissertations domestically and abroad, and foreign citizens defending doctoral dissertations in Vietnam shall submit their dissertations to the National Library of Vietnam in accordance with this Law and other relevant laws.

3. Educators at educational institutions shall cooperate with library staff to guide students in utilizing library information resources and services for learning and research.

4. Social-professional organizations established in accordance with laws on associations shall have the following responsibilities:

a) Participate in developing the library sector;

b) Coordinate with state management agencies to disseminate and popularize legal regulations, policies, and achievements in library science both domestically and internationally;

c) Advise on setting standards for libraries, service quality, and promoting reading culture;

d) Participate in formulating and encouraging members to adhere to library profession conduct rules.

Chapter V

STATE MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES FOR LIBRARIES

Article 48. State Management Responsibilities for Libraries of the Government

1. The Government uniformly manages state administration over libraries.

2. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism serves as the lead agency assisting the Government in national library management throughout the country and has the following responsibilities:

a) Issuing or submitting to competent state authorities for issuance and implementation of policies, legal normative documents, strategies, and development plans for libraries;

b) Issuing or submitting to competent authorities for issuance of national standards and technical regulations for library operations; issuing library profession conduct rules;

c) Directing interlibrary connectivity implementation; directing professional library operations, training and developing library human resources, researching and applying science and technology in library activities;

d) Disseminating, publicizing, and educating laws on libraries;

đ) Building and guiding the development of reading culture;

e) Inspecting, auditing, handling violations, resolving complaints and denunciations in library activities within its authority;

g) International cooperation in libraries.

Article 49. State Management Responsibilities for Libraries of Ministries and Agencies Equivalent to Ministries

1. The Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Public Security, within their respective mandates, shall take the lead and coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to manage the organizational structure and activities of people's armed forces libraries.

2. The Ministry of Education and Training and the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, within their respective mandates, shall take the lead and coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to organize library activities, set standards for educational institution libraries; promote school reading culture; manage library workforce training; manage compulsory drug rehabilitation center libraries.

3. The Ministry of Information and Communications shall take the lead and coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and relevant state agencies to manage information systems and cybersecurity in library operations; lead the implementation of preservation regulations.

4. The Ministry of Science and Technology shall take the lead and coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to review and announce national standards, review technical regulations for library operations; direct the development and sharing of scientific and technological information resources and innovation both domestically and internationally.

5. Ministries and agencies equivalent to ministries, within their respective mandates, shall be responsible for coordinating with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to implement state management over libraries.

Article 50. State Management Responsibilities for Libraries of People's Committees at All Levels

1. Within their respective tasks and powers, People's Committees at all levels shall implement state management over libraries in their localities; organize the development, issuance, and implementation of policies, strategies, and plans for library development and reading culture in their localities.

2. Within their respective tasks and powers, Provincial People's Committees shall be responsible for the following:

a) Issuing or submitting to competent state agencies for issuance policies to support and attract the construction and development of library networks in their localities to meet the information and knowledge access needs of local residents;

b) Investing in provincial library development; building, improving, and consolidating public library systems within their jurisdictions; encouraging organizations and individuals to establish and maintain community libraries and private libraries serving the community in their localities; stipulating the conditions under which provincial libraries may accept publications published locally in accordance with the provisions of the law;

c) Directing the modernization of libraries, establishing mechanisms for cooperation between libraries and agencies and organizations to develop libraries and reading culture within their jurisdictions;

d) Directing the People's Committees at district and commune levels to manage public libraries and library networks within their jurisdictions.

Chapter VI

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 51. Effective Date

This Law shall take effect from July 1, 2020.

The Library Ordinance No. 31/2000/PL-UBTVQH10 shall cease to be effective from the date this Law takes effect.

Article 52. Transitional Provisions

Libraries established and registered to operate before the effective date of this Law may continue operations without having to comply with the notification procedures set forth in this Law.

This Law was adopted by the National Assembly of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the 14th term, the 8th session on November 21, 2019.