Gathered in an annual meeting on Saturday, October 17, at Ti ar Vro (Guingamp), the Institute of Breton and European Documentation (IDBE) reviewed a fruitful year in 2026 and unveiled its ambitions for 2027. In light of the necessary investments to modernize its digital tools, the association is making an urgent appeal for membership and donations to ensure the free access to its documentary resources.
Assessment and Call for Support
The Institute of Breton and European Documentation (IDBE) presents its assessment and seeks financial support to maintain its free digital library. During its annual meeting, held on Saturday, October 17, at Ti ar Vro (Guingamp), the IDBE reviewed a productive year in 2026 and outlined its ambitions for 2027. In light of the necessary investments to modernize its digital tools, the association is making an urgent appeal for membership and donations to ensure free access to its documentary resources.
A 2026 Marked by the Enrichment of Collections
Under the presidency of Erwan Fouéré, the IDBE continued its dual mission: to preserve written heritage and to make this knowledge accessible to all, whether researchers or the general public. The year 2026 was particularly dynamic, with:
- A significant enrichment of the collections, particularly around European regional identities.
- The continuation of the digitization plan for periodicals and rare or old works.
- The welcoming of new proposals for donations of private collections and the strengthening of the volunteer team.
Looking Ahead to 2027: Digital Modernization and Cultural Events
For the coming year, the Institute places communication and accessibility at the heart of its priorities. In addition to continuing its flagship events — participation in the Saint-Michel flea market in Guingamp (with its second-hand bookshop Avel an Trev), its presence at the Carhaix Book Festival, and the commemoration in honor of Abbé Perrot scheduled for Saturday, December 12, 2026 — the major project for 2027 will be the complete overhaul of the association's websites.
Practical Information
A Call for Financial Support to Safeguard Free Access
Currently, thousands of internet users access the archives and works made available online through the IDBE's digital library for free. However, the necessary technical overhaul for the survival and visibility of this platform requires a significant financial investment that the association cannot bear alone. Without this financial support, the free access to the digital library is at risk.
The IDBE therefore appeals to the generosity of its readers, enthusiasts of Brittany, and defenders of cultural heritage. Each membership directly contributes to the financing of these new digital tools and ensures the sustainability of freely accessible knowledge.
How to Support the IDBE?
It is possible to join or renew your annual membership starting today:
- Minimum membership fee: €25
- Support membership: €50 or more
Memberships can be sent (check made out to IDBE) to the following address: IDBE / Avel an Trev, 5, rue des Ponts, Saint-Michel, 22200 Guingamp.
For any press inquiries or information requests, please contact the Institute of Breton and European Documentation (IDBE) at the following address: 16, rue de la Madeleine, 22200 Guingamp. Tel: 06 81 87 54 63. Email: idbe.gwp@gmail.com.
