During the past 50 years, the study of "international librarianship"—global, universal, or comparative—has increasingly become an essential element in understanding the importance of information and knowledge in the global setting. Over this period of time, many attempts have been made to evaluate the similarities and differences in information structures, staffing, and services in various areas of the world with the ultimate intention of providing timely and accurate information to seekers in the greater international arena.

International Librarianship: A Basic Guide to Global Knowledge Access identifies basic background sources, in whatever format, for the study and teaching of international librarianship. The most important ones relate to:

· Establishing a professional association, so that issues relating to information access can be discussed and resolved at the national and international level
· Identifying international philanthropic agencies, which can facilitate development of international information services
· The Importance of national libraries and bibliographic services, which are responsible for some coordination and cooperation in sharing national information
· Developing information policies on both the national and international front

Renowned author and specialist on international librarianship, Robert D. Stueart, concludes the guide with a listing of sources for the discussion and development of information policies, including proposals put forth in the World Summit on the Information Society.