Jukes N, Bhavsar S, Leporsky D, Maroueva E, Ponce S, Ramos M, Schmidt A . The impact of decentralised alternatives libraries on campaigning for replacement [abstract]. ALTEX. 2011;28(Special Issue):235. Abstract 505.


Abstract

Libraries of alternatives offer hands-on experience of non-animal teaching and training tools. They enable borrowers to assess products and become familiarised with the range of alternatives available. InterNICHE established the first international alternatives library, known as the Alternatives Loan System, in 2002. It comprises a wide range of software, models, mannekins and training devices chosen for their pedagogical value and potential for replacement. The alternatives cover all disciplines within medicine, veterinary medicine and biology. Borrowers range from teachers through ethics committees to campaigners. The library makes alternatives more accessible and provides a resource for conferences, exhibitions, outreach tours and training. The loans have facilitated implementation, as demonstrated by subsequent purchase and use of alternatives, and replacement of dissections and animal experiments. The positive impact of the resource and the growth and capacity of the InterNICHE network led to the establishment of further libraries in Russia, Ukraine, India, Mexico, Peru, Kenya and South Africa. Each resource has brought the benefits of the international library to the country, with further advantages. Being localised, it is more practical and economic, facilitating significantly increased access. Being managed by the InterNICHE National Contact or Partner, it empowers through new responsibilities; and with an important resource to offer, it strengthens their position nationally. Reflecting further decentralisation and provision of localised resources, each InterNICHE National Contact and Partner across the world also now has a set of 30 software alternatives. This equips even more campaigners with small but valuable software libraries that complement the Alternative Loan Systems.

 



Author's keywords: alternatives, animal experiments, education, InterNICHE, library

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Link to journal: ALTEX - Alternatives to Animal Experimentation