Event Materials

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://repository.ifla.org/handle/20.500.14598/916

Material (papers, proceedings, presentations, etc.) accompanying Unit conferences or meetings not part of the annual IFLA WLIC or Satellite Meeting programme

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 86

Sharing Library Resources In Technology-enhanced And Technology-starved Times: A Case Of Selected Southern African Library Consortiums
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Collence, T. Chisita; Fombad, Madeleine
Library resource sharing has become the cornerstone of survival and international cooperation. At a time when institutional insularity has given way to convergence, libraries have exploited the advantages proffered by digital technologies to enhance cooperation and collaboration to meet the ever-increasing dynamic and diverse information needs of users. Library resource sharing has become the new currency for leveraging library services beyond time and space. In the face of underfunding, libraries in Southern Africa have thrived through cooperation and collaboration to provide greater access to resources. The study examines the architectural framework of resource sharing among academic libraries in selected Southern African countries. By analyzing the digital divide from a qualitative perspective, the study identifies strategies for enhancing resource sharing between academic libraries and National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) as well as commercial Internet Service Providers (ISPs).The proliferation of NRENs has come at an opportune time when most academic libraries in Southern Africa are involved in resource sharing using digital technologies. The study seeks to recommend a strategy for wider access to library services to promote diversity of collections and inclusivity.
Glitter Is Not Forever! Resource Sharing And Knowledge Sharing As The New Sparkle In Realizing Development Goals In Botswana Through Library Resource Sharing
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Ramotsisi, Gobonetse Kelebogile
Botswana like the rest of the world is moving from resource based to knowledge-driven economy. Botswana’s economy has for the longest time been heavily dependent on Diamonds as a source of wealth. The country has since realized that that Diamonds are not forever, hence the need to diversify and join the world in creating wealth through knowledge creation and knowledge monetization. This realization has made Botswana to make major changes to its education system to begin to produce a new workforce which will create new knowledge and a new economy in the knowledge –driven dispensation. The government has started installing internet in schools and in small villages. Unfortunately Library budgets have been dwindling, thus restricting Libraries ability to subscribe to scholarly databases like, Emerald, Taylor and Francis, Elsevier and Science Direct among many others which are crucial in any Research institute. The article will examine the extent to which Botswana library consortia has enabled small library that cannot afford expensive databases to serve their clients through resource sharing. The paper will further discuss the impact of EIFL (Electronic Information for Libraries) initiatives in assisting small libraries in Botswana to overcome the burden of paywalls. The article will explore how resource sharing is bridging the gap that has been caused by many factors including the just ended pandemic. It will explore how the consortium has brought in a new hope for libraries to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals and assurance of a knowledge based society.
Acess To Knowledge And Education It The Digital Technologies Era
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Bogova, Hristina; Bogova, Hristina
The digital era is a new stage in the development of mankind, associated with the construction of a global information society based on data and knowledge. Nowadays, we can say with full confidence that humanity has entered a qualitatively new phase of its development related to the development of a global information digital society, the concept of which has become a common platform for interaction between all subjects of the modern economy in order to solve the problem of introducing a new production cycle, based on concepts such as information, data, knowledge and communication. At the same time, the global digital society is a society of continuous learning. In fact, the new cultural and historical context of human development in regard to the upcoming and actually developing, before our very eyes, fourth industrial revolution involves the transformation of production, economy and social sphere based on the widespread use of digital and hybrid technologies, focused on the use and processing of large amounts of data for decision-making and generation of new knowledge. The report examines the crisis experienced by the education system during the development of the digital economy. The main premise of this crisis is related to the following paradox: although the basis of the modern economy is the accumulation, processing and dissemination of knowledge, a fragmented perception of knowledge as such is developing society. The purpose of the study is to highlight the most important characteristics of the educational crisis, as well as to determine its specifics in relation to the Bulgarian context.
Inclusiveness And Accessibility In The Provision Of Information Services In Academic Libraries In Southwest, Nigeria
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Okafor, Ifeyinwa Angela; Omorinkoba, Oluwatosin Gbenga
Digital inclusion and accessibility are approaches deployed to ensure that the web and other digital technologies are barrier-free for everyone. The essence of digital inclusiveness and accessibility is to guarantee that those with learning disabilities have equal access to information and services. It is imperative that learning disabilities should be considered during digital design process to ensure digital inclusion and accessibility for the community. This brings us to the need of inclusive designs in the design of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) System that will accommodate people with disabilities so they will not encounter barriers when accessing or interacting with the online environment. The mix methods research design was used for the study and the population included four academic libraries in Southwest Nigeria. The questionnaire and interview guide were the research instruments and results showed that 3 out of the 4 academic libraries have most of the general assistive technologies for people with disabilities. Results also shows negligence around providing assistive software and hardware for the deaf/hearing impaired and locomotive impaired in the academic libraries. It was recommended that academic libraries should give all forms of disabilities equal attention in the provision of assistive technology and information should be provided in alternative formats to enable them access needed information resources freely.
Access to Knowledge in the Digital Age: Unlocking Kyrgyzstan’s Collections
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Bekbalaeva, Jyldyz
In Kyrgyzstan, libraries have gone through multiple transformations reflecting political, economic and societal changes since the country gained independence. Libraries look to expand the professional network through making the country’s resources available to researchers and academics locally and globally. Multiple digitization projects have been implemented; however, the accessibility and discoverability issues remain, and majority of collections are yet not accessible to the public even when converted into digital format. While this presents the technological issue, the cultural aspect also imposes challenges event to a greater extent. The paper examines the access to rare heritage collections in Kyrgyzstan based on the example of the Museum of Rare Books of the Issyk-Kul Oblast Library, located in the eastern part of the country.
Advancing OA Initiatives: A Case Study from the American University of Central Asia
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Kerimova, Madina
The article provides an overview of the evolution of OA initiatives in Kyrgyzstan, with a particular focus on the collaborative efforts of the library at the American University of Central Asia (AUCA) with public and university libraries nationwide. It highlights the successes and challenges encountered in implementing OA and examines the current state of OA publishing and OA repositories in Kyrgyzstan.
Assessing the Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Publishing Indicators: A Case Study of Iran
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Zavaraqi, Rasoul; Haji Asadi, Farinaz
This paper focuses on analyzing the publishing and economic indicators of the Iranian Publishing Industry before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study employs a quantitative approach with content analysis methodology, utilizing a researcher-made checklist for data collection. The statistical population consists of 722,988 book titles published in Iran from April 2016 to April 2023, sourced from statistical reports in the Iran Monthly Bank of Book Publishers. Trends in book publication, geographical distribution, and pricing are compared across the three time periods, revealing increases in certain subjects during the pandemic, such as philosophy, social sciences, art, literature, and geography. However, the average number of publications has decreased across all topics during this period. Additionally, other publishing indicators show no significant differences before and after the pandemic, highlighting the industry's resilience despite challenges posed by the global health crisis.
Interlending and Document Supply Services at Qatar National Library: A Focus on Multicultural Patron Engagement and Enhancement
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Aquino, Rowena O.
This paper examines the diversity of collections accessible through ILDS highlighting the prevalence of requests of materials pertaining to culture, history, and ethnic studies. Data indicates a portion of requested articles and titles falling within this thematic domain, emphasizing its importance to patrons. It also evaluates the current status of cultural and ethnic studies within the ILDS framework and proposes strategies for enhancement. Recommendations include targeted acquisitions, fostering partnerships with institutions specializing in these areas, and advocating for the inclusion of diverse perspectives in collection development policies. Ultimately, the paper underscores the significance of cultural and ethnic studies within ILDS Services at QNL and offers actionable insights for future improvements and advocacy efforts.
ULSIT Projects and Practices in Diversity and Inclusiveness in Resource Sharing
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Zagorov, Vasil; Encheva, Marina
For decades, there has been a prevailing sense that the world is becoming increasingly interconnected, with information technologies bringing everything within arm’s reach. Simultaneously, in pursuit of long-term goals of information equity and assurance, knowledge of the local context is starting to get lost in the stream of information. Recognizing these trends, the University of Library Studies, and Information Technologies (ULSIT), based in Sofia, Bulgaria, has been engaged in a series of projects over the past decade aimed at seeking balance in the new information landscape. This report presents the university’s positive experiences in two main areas related to sharing academic and educational resources. First, it highlights best practices in the digitization of the national retrospective bibliography of the Bulgarian Revival (1801–1878), transforming it from a local printed repertoire into a modern information retrieval system. Second, it discusses projects focused on creating a platform with international games tailored to regional educational needs in the field of information literacy and library-information education. Conclusions are drawn regarding best practices and challenges in forming clusters of academic information and their sharing.
Enhancing Resource Sharing Through Digital Knowledge Accessibility In The Modern Era In Developing Countries
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-22) Oghuvwu, Victor
In the contemporary digital era, the convergence of technology and knowledge accessibility has the potential to reshape resource sharing dynamics, particularly in developing countries. Developing countries face a unique set of challenges, including limited infrastructure, constrained financial resources, limited expertise, lack of training and diverse linguistic landscapes. This abstract will scrutinize how these challenges can be addressed through the strategic implementation of digital knowledge accessibility initiatives. The discussion will encompass the role of open-access repositories, collaborative platforms, and innovative technologies in overcoming barriers and fostering a more inclusive environment for resource sharing. This paper presentation will explore the challenges and opportunities associated with leveraging digital advancements to enhance resource sharing in contexts marked by economic constraints and technological disparities. Drawing on practical examples and case studies, the presentation will showcase successful initiatives from various developing regions. It will shed light on how digital technologies can be adapted to suit local contexts, promoting knowledge exchange in sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture. Emphasis will be placed on empowering communities through the democratization of information, ensuring that resource sharing aligns with the specific needs of developing nations. Additionally, the ethical dimensions of digital knowledge accessibility will be addressed, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural diversity and indigenous knowledge. The presentation will explore strategies for safeguarding intellectual property rights, fostering responsible data sharing practices, and promoting digital literacy to mitigate potential risks associated with increased accessibility.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) enables resource sharing and promotes open innovation collaboration within libraries
(International Federation of Library Association (IFLA), 2025-07-21) Chen Weiwei
At present, a new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation is accelerating. The emergence of AI technology has greatly enhanced the mobility and accessibility of resource information. In recent years, the National Library has always adhered to the development concepts of coordination, openness and sharing, and has established inter-library loan relations with more than 600 libraries in 34 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions across the country, and inter-library loan relations with more than 500 libraries in 63 countries around the world. To improve the dissemination of resource information, Chinese artificial intelligence technology companies are relying on their technological advantages to expand application areas and enable resource sharing. For example, China's Huawei, Baidu and the National Library have signed cooperation agreements to further promote the application of relevant technologies in library-related fields. Similarly, Ali, Tencent Research Institute, iFlytek, and other companies are actively exploring strategies to use AI to enable resource sharing and promote open innovation collaboration within libraries.
Educating Metadata Professionals: Albanian Case
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Demo, Ederina
Part of the “Competencies Matters” subtheme at the IFLA 2025 symposium on metadata in Athens, this presentation examines how rapid technological change, including AI and evolving bibliographic standards, is reshaping the skillsets needed by metadata professionals. It highlights the role of the National School of Librarianship and the National Center for Librarian Training in Albania in equipping librarians with essential competencies, focusing on metadata creation, international standards, and ongoing professional education to support sustainable and reliable information services.
Navigating the AI-Driven Metadata Landscape: A Human Centered Approach
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Liu, Ying-Hsang
Part of the “Technology Matters” subtheme at the IFLA 2025 symposium, this presentation discusses the use of AI in metadata creation and management, based on findings from the Survey on Metadata and AI conducted by the DCMI Education Committee's Metadata and AI Task Group in late 2024. With 222 respondents—primarily from China and the U.S.—the survey explores the potential of generative and predictive AI tools, while also highlighting professional concerns. Respondents emphasized the importance of transparency, human oversight, and ethical considerations, particularly around bias in AI training data. While AI offers promising efficiency gains, the findings underline the need for continued professional development and robust evaluation frameworks. Controlled vocabularies, community review, and clearly defined workflows are essential to ensure trust in AI-assisted metadata. Ongoing data collection may yield further insights for future discussion, contributing to the development of best practices for integrating AI and human contributions in metadata work.
Managing Changes in Knowledge Organization Systems Through Linked Data Technologies: The Case of UDC
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Slavic, Aida; Vukadin, Ana
Part of the “Technology Matters” subtheme at the IFLA 2025 metadata symposium in Athens, this presentation explores how Linked Data (LD) technologies can help libraries manage evolving knowledge organization systems. While classification systems like the Universal Decimal Classification (UDC) are regularly updated, bibliographic data often retains outdated classmarks, complicating access and discoverability. Using UDC as a case study, the presentation introduces the UDC Linked Data look-up service—developed through the Digging Into the Knowledge Graph project—which processes URIs and extended RDF records, including deprecated terms. The service enables libraries to connect older and newer metadata, improving navigation and enriching discovery through current terminology, even when collections remain organized under older schemes.
Toward a Unified Framework of Global Cataloging & Metadata Competencies
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Snow, Karen; Bothmann, Bobby
Part of the “Competencies Matters” subtheme at the IFLA Symposium on Metadata: Metadata Standards Matter – Building a Sustainable Future for Information, held on 19 March 2025 at the National Library of Greece in Athens, this presentation introduces the revised Core Competencies for Cataloging and Metadata Professional Librarians, developed by ALA’s Core division. Updated in 2023 to reflect changes like AI, inclusivity, and evolving standards, the document aligns with IFLA’s International Cataloguing Principles (ICP) and supports user-centered, accessible metadata practices. While rooted in the North American context, it offers a strong foundation for a potential IFLA-endorsed global framework. The session explores its development, relevance, and next steps toward an international competency standard.
Applying Language Models for Knowledge Organization System Maintenance and Development: Approaching Roles and Competencies for Editorial Review Boards
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Kempf, Andreas Oskar
At the IFLA 2025 symposium in Athens, this “Competencies Matters” presentation explores how AI is reshaping the maintenance of knowledge organization systems like thesauri. As manual subject indexing declines, new machine-assisted workflows and skills are needed. The ZBW – Leibniz Information Centre for Economics shares its first experience evaluating AI-generated vocabulary for its Thesaurus for Economics, highlighting the editorial approach, initial findings, and emerging competency requirements.
Only What Changes Remain, or the Need for a Rethink
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Behrens, Renate
At the IFLA 2025 symposium Metadata Standards Matter, held in Athens, this presentation falls under the “Competencies Matters” subtheme, focusing on the evolving skills needed by metadata professionals in response to rapid technological change, including AI. As cultural institutions face fast-paced transformation, the session encourages libraries, archives, and museums to embrace innovation through continuous training, cross-generational collaboration, and local expertise. It stresses the importance of starting this shift at the educational level and adapting workflows through strategic management. International standards play a key role in this process. IFLA, as a global leader, must help adapt or develop models that meet new demands, working with other bodies to address financial constraints and promote sustainability. The presentation offers practical scenarios, suggestions, and invites discussion.
From AACR to the Official RDA: Managing Change and Reskilling
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Gerolimos, Michalis; Zapounidou, Sofia; Koufakou, Effie
Under the “Competencies Matters” subtheme at the IFLA 2025 symposium in Athens, this presentation highlights the National Library of Greece’s transition from AACR2 and Unimarc to IFLA LRM, official RDA, and MARC21, laying the foundation for linked data implementation. The shift required workflow redesign, new RDA application profiles, and a cultural change in cataloguing practice. Emphasis was placed on reskilling staff not only in technical areas, such as linked data, IFLA LRM, and special cataloguing cases, but also in adopting a mindset open to change. A tailored training program, Greek-language guidelines, and ongoing support ensure sustained implementation and quality control.
Using CSV & Python Power Apps for Creating an RDA Application Profile, with a Validation Method
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Lowagie, Hannes
Presented under the “Technology Matters” subtheme of the IFLA 2025 metadata symposium in Athens, this talk explores a modern, standards-compliant approach to metadata management using Microsoft PowerApps. It showcases the creation of a customizable RDA (Resource Description and Access) application profile and the generation of SHACL validation files via SHACL4BIB. The solution enables agile metadata design and automated quality control, bridging RDA standards with practical implementation. By combining user-friendly tools and semantic web technologies, it supports flexible, precise, and sustainable metadata workflows.
Reparative Description for Indigenous-led Access in Collections: Devil is in the Dietz-tails
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-03-19) Anderson, Sadie; Laroque, Sheila; Ye, Jessica
At the IFLA 2025 symposium 'Metadata Standards Matter: Building a Sustainable Future for Information', held at the National Library of Greece, this presentation addresses the “Accessibility Matters” subtheme. It explores how metadata standards impact access to Indigenous collections at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), located on Treaty 6 Territory in Canada. USask’s archives hold extensive materials on Indigenous Peoples, but digital platforms like Our Legacy and MemorySask face metadata issues, such as outdated language, inconsistent entries, and poor discoverability, that hinder access for Indigenous communities. These problems are compounded by ethical concerns, including lack of consent and the use of harmful or inaccurate descriptions. With new collaborative efforts involving Indigenous experts and librarians, USask is renewing its commitment to reparative metadata work, aiming to align with OCAP, CARE, and Canada’s Calls to Action.

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