CEAL stands for Council on East Asian Libraries. It is an international organization that promotes the development of East Asian libraries and librarianship. The council was established in 1958 to address the growing need for collaboration and cooperation among libraries in East Asia.
The main objective of CEAL is to enhance the availability of research materials related to East Asian studies and facilitate access to these resources for scholars, researchers, and students. The council works towards achieving this goal by organizing conferences, workshops, and seminars, where librarians and scholars from different countries come together to share their knowledge and experiences.
CEAL also plays a crucial role in advocating for the needs and interests of East Asian libraries. The council actively collaborates with other library organizations, publishers, and vendors to improve the acquisition, preservation, and access to East Asian materials. It also works towards the development and implementation of standards and best practices for East Asian librarianship.
CEAL is governed by an executive board, which consists of elected officers and representatives from different regions. The board members serve a term of two years and are responsible for overseeing the activities and initiatives of the council. CEAL also has various committees and task forces that focus on specific areas such as cataloging, collection development, and digital resources.
One of the major achievements of CEAL is the establishment of the CEAL Cataloging Committee, which is responsible for developing and maintaining the CEAL Romanization Tables. These tables provide guidelines for the romanization of East Asian languages, ensuring consistency and accuracy in cataloging practices across different libraries.
In addition to its regular activities, CEAL also awards grants and scholarships to support research and professional development in the field of East Asian librarianship. The council recognizes outstanding contributions to the field through its various awards and honors.
In conclusion, CEAL is a vital organization that plays a pivotal role in the development and advancement of East Asian libraries. Through its collaborative efforts and initiatives, CEAL promotes the availability and accessibility of East Asian resources, fostering research and scholarship in the field of East Asian studies.
Leave a Reply