World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) Papers and Presentations

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://repository.ifla.org/handle/20.500.14598/1941

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Reimagining Open Access: A Diverse Approach from Australia
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-08-13) Jayshree Mamtora; Wayne, Bradshaw; Tove Lemberget
The Open Access movement has come a long way since the Budapest Open Access Initiative principles were first released in the early 2000s. Examples of open practices began to appear worldwide and, against this background, the Australian government demonstrated a strong commitment to open research by providing support to academic institutions in a number of ways, including funding for institutional repositories empowering universities to store and share research outputs. More recently, Australia has seen a rapid adoption of transformative agreements, leading to 56 per cent of new journal articles being published as gold open access in 2023. However, while gold open access is rising, other open access pathways—such as green open access through institutional repositories—are in decline. This shift highlights a critical issue: transformative agreements alone cannot provide a viable path to making all Australian research freely available. At James Cook University (JCU), the ResearchOnline@JCU institutional repository houses metadata records of close to 60,000 research outputs going back to 2007. Some 44,000 of these records are journal articles with more than 28,000—or 63 per cent—of these outputs being locked behind a paywall. This presentation will highlight a suite of open access initiatives carried out at JCU, a research-intensive university in regional northern Australia, to bridge this gap; and share practical strategies that could be adopted by other institutions worldwide. In addition to the more conventional approaches such as negotiated publisher agreements, open access repositories, and diamond open access journals, we have successfully implemented several additional initiatives including the appointment of open access champions and green open access drives. We propose that many of these initiatives can be applied to a wide variety of institutions to advance the goal of championing a diverse open access publishing landscape Keywords: Open Access, Australia, James Cook University Library, Institutional Repository, Bibliodiversity
Developing a Responsive and Ethical AI Culture in Higher Education
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-08-05) Debbie Schachter
This paper will discuss the challenges that organizations are facing in the introduction to and adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to support library and higher education organizational practices. While many people, including students and library patrons, are using Generative AI (GenAI) tools, there is a growing gap in awareness and knowledge of the various tools and how they can be used to increase organizational efficiencies and improve service. Cultural change is needed to support the learning of and adoption of these tools, to ensure libraries and their larger organisations continue to progress and support our users in the appropriate and ethical use of AI tools. Critical steps to be taken to support the exploration and adoption of AI tools in an ethical and responsible manner are proposed for higher education libraries. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI) agents; Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI); Academic libraries; Higher education; Organizational culture.
Inspiring Ideas from the Emerald Isle: An Overview of Open Science and Scholarship Initiatives in Ireland
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-31) Cathal McCauley; John McDonough
Ireland is making significant progress toward establishing a fully open research ecosystem with a target of 100% open access to all publicly funded research by 2030. This paper outlines major national and institutional initiatives, focusing on the role of the National Open Research Forum (NORF) in driving Ireland’s open research agenda through policy development, stakeholder engagement, and the implementation of the National Action Plan for Open Research 2022–2030. Distinctive features of Ireland’s approach include the collaborative, government-supported model of NORF, and the establishment of national infrastructures such as the Digital Repository of Ireland (DRI). These are reinforced by policy alignment through Ireland’s innovation strategy, Impact 2030, and grassroots engagement at institutional level. This paper explores practical and strategic actions at Maynooth University and Dublin City University libraries, highlighting developments in institutional repositories, library-led publishing, open monograph publishing, and research data management (RDM). The libraries at both institutions are central to supporting sustainable scholarly communication, increasing research visibility, and promoting FAIR data practices. Quick wins identified based on this experience include optimising existing repository infrastructure and providing basic RDM support. Suggestions for longer-term goals include a focus on scaling monograph publishing and embedding open research into academic culture. The need for a sustainable, central, coordination body is also identified. Ireland’s collaborative approach, in which libraries play a central role, serves as a compelling model for others seeking to implement cost-effective, scalable Open Science and Open Scholarship practices that align with evolving global standards. Keywords: Open Access, Open Research, Institutional Repositories, Research Data Management (RDM), Library Publishing.
National Library and Archives of Iran Research Festival; Facilitator of Scientific Communication in Realizing Open Science
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-30) Mahboubeh Ghorbani; Fattaneh Torkashvand
This article examines the role of the Research and Technology Festival of the National Library and Archives of Iran in facilitating scientific communication and advancing open science. The primary aim of the study is to explore the impact of scientific research festivals on promoting a culture of inquiry, identifying talent, encouraging interdisciplinary and international collaboration, enhancing research skills, and linking academia, industry, and society to support the goals of open science. The findings of the study indicate that research festivals provide a valuable platform for the rapid dissemination of scientific findings and for receiving expert feedback prior to formal publication. By fostering interaction among researchers from diverse disciplines and countries, these events contribute to the expansion of scientific collaboration, the generation of innovative ideas, and increased motivation among scholars. Moreover, the festival plays a significant role in cultivating a culture of transparency, open access, and scientific accountability by focusing on the development of modern research skills and improving scientific literacy. Another notable achievement of the festival is the strengthening of connections between the scientific community and policymakers, facilitating the direct transfer of research findings into decision-making processes and supporting evidence-based policy development. Keywords: Open Science, Scholarship Communication, Research Festivals, Open Access Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Knowledge Sharing
Digital Literacy & Crowdsourcing: Tackling Descriptive and Algorithmic Bias through Doing
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-27) Jessica BrodeFrank
This paper looks at crowdsourcing projects as a way to build trust and digital literacy with the public. As museums continue to rate as the most trusted sources for the public, the field of cultural heritage has been tasked to combat emerging information literacy needs in their communities. This session is ideal for those looking to get an introduction to crowdsourcing projects: the ethical considerations of these projects, the opportunities afforded, the investments needed, etc. It is also ideal for those looking to activate their collections in digital experiences online and onsite, specifically to teach digital literacy skills to the public. Keywords: crowdsourcing, alternative text, artificial intelligence, community engagement
Empoderando a bibliotecarios del Sur Global a través de la alfabetización crítica en IA para futuros sostenibles
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-25) Cristian Maturana Maturana; Santiago Villegas-Ceballos
This paper explores the pivotal role of critical Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy in empowering librarians across the global south. In contexts where AI offers transformative opportunities yet risks deepening pre-existing inequities, information professionals must be able to understand, apply, and critically interrogate these technologies. We argue that AI literacy which transcends technical skills—integrating deep ethical awareness, rigorous critical evaluation, and a decolonial praxis—is essential for librarians to navigate AI’s complexities, advocate for equitable, human-centred AI ecosystems, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable futures. IAparaBibliotecas.com, an initiative co-founded by the authors in Latin America, serves as an illustrative case study. Analysing its dual philosophy—merging technological innovation embedded in daily practice at the Biblioteca de Santiago with a regional digital-transformation consultancy—demonstrates how hands-on training and philosophical reflection converge to catalyse empowerment. We examine the intersection between critical AI literacy and the need to decolonise AI—ensuring data sovereignty, valuing local knowledges, and fostering a pluriversal ethics—and show its direct contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The paper closes with strategic recommendations for policy-makers, library practitioners, and international partners, positioning librarians of the global south as leaders in shaping an inclusive and sustainable digital future. Keywords: critical AI literacy; global south; libraries; Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); AI decolonisation; IAparaBibliotecas.
Beyond Awareness: Managing Workforce-Related AI Risks in the National Library and Archives of Iran (NLAI) Using Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA)
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-24) Babak Zendehdel Nobari; Behnam Zendehdel Nobari; Reza Shahrabi
As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies rapidly evolve, libraries and archives must proactively address the associated workforce-related risks to ensure sustainable and secure adoption. This study prioritizes AI workforce risks in the National Library and Archives of Iran (NLAI) using the Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) method, offering a strategic and practical framework for institutional risk management. Through the application of the CATWOE framework, key stakeholders were identified, and 23 AI workforce risks were evaluated. Among them, the most critical risk was identified as “Inadvertent Data Exposure During AI Optimization”, highlighting the urgent need for safeguards against unintended security breaches caused by well-meaning but untrained staff. Beyond presenting a risk prioritization model, this research underscores the broader significance of adopting structured approaches like IPA in libraries and archives. Rather than waiting for disruptive technologies to dictate their trajectory, institutions such as NLAI can serve as role models by taking initiative, anticipating challenges, and shaping their own future in the AI era. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), AI Risk Management, Workforce, Importance Performance Analysis (IPA), National Library and Archives of Iran (NLAI).
Preserving Local Culinary Heritage through Pathfinders: Japanese Public Libraries and the Revitalization of traditional local cuisines
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-23) Yoshiko Tanahashi
This paper explores how Japanese public libraries preserve and activate regional food heritage through tools such as pathfinders, community events, and workshops. Libraries are increasingly acting as cultural facilitators, shifting from preserving knowledge to transmitting intangible cultural heritage. Based on an analysis of 56 pathfinders created between 2015-2025, selected for their focus on themes related to regional food heritage –such as Kyodo Ryori (traditional local cuisine), Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), and food cultures rooted in local customs and seasonal practices. The study examines their thematic scope and community relevance. A comparative review reveals that even small municipalities engage in culinary heritage to foster local identity and participation. Case studies of the Ishikawa Prefectural Library and the Tsuruoka City Library demonstrate diverse strategies that blend digital archives, intergenerational learning, and event-based engagement. Keywords: local culinary heritage, pathfinders, Japanese public libraries, cultural identity
International collaboration for the intensification of Open Science didactics. Insights from 4EU+ Universities
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-18) Zuza Wiorogórska; Anna Książczak-Gronowska; Karolina Minch; Lilianna Nalewajska
Open for You! is a series of workshops initiated in 2021, targeting doctoral candidates from within the 4EU+ Alliance. The programme focuses on the principles and implementation of Open Science (OS) and is coordinated by the libraries of the 4EU+ universities. This paper offers the readers two main avenues for inspiration and practical implementation. First, it seeks to encourage openness in research-related initiatives among colleagues from institutions that are still in the early stages of adopting OS practices. Second, it aims to guide colleagues from European institutions who are interested in international collaboration, highlighting specific actions that can be initiated or expanded to strengthen cooperation within the framework of the EUI. It focuses on the pedagogical approach and course content of the Open for You!, while also showcasing other OS-related joint initiatives developed within the 4EU+ Alliance. Keywords: 1CORE; 4EU+; European academic libraries; European universities; library education; open science;
Bibliothèque nationale de France: pour une approche transversale et créative de l’éthique de l’intelligence artificielle
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2023-03-03) Leclaire, Céline
L’introduction raisonnée des technologies de l’intelligence artificielle dans les bibliothèques suscite des reflexions éthiques renouvelées : comment sont-elles prises en compte à l’échelle de la Bibliothèque nationale de France ? Cet article ne se propose pas tant de mettre en lumière les différentes chartes et principes éthiques qui inspirent l’Institution ou de diffuser ses bonnes pratiques en matière d’éthique que de présenter la façon dont, concrètement, de manière globale et stratégique, ce sujet est soulevé et traité à la BnF. Pour cela, il s’appuiera sur la démarche mise en oeuvre en 2022 en vue de la rédaction d’une charte éthique et surtout de l’atteinte des objectifs suivants : inscrire l’éthique à la racine même des projets en intelligence artificielle, et proposer une approche collective homogène, rassembleuse, qui ne soit pas la juxtaposition d’approches diverses, qui soit au service de l’action, et qui tienne compte de l’identité de la BnF. Si la charte, à proprement parler, n’a pas encore vu le jour, la démarche a révélé la manière dont les questionnements, la créativité, le recours aux schémas et les emprunts à des univers extérieurs peuvent faire avancer les travaux en cours.
Bridging Mountains and Minds: The Role of Libraries in Advancing Equitable and Multilingual Open Science in Nepal and Beyond
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-13) Pushparaj Subedi
Open Science holds transformative potential to democratize access to knowledge through transparency, collaboration, and inclusion. However, in geographically complex and linguistically diverse countries like Nepal, its implementation faces distinct challenges. This presentation explores how libraries—longstanding institutions of access and learning—can bridge these divides by fostering equitable and multilingual participation in Open Science. With over 125 ethnic groups, 123 spoken languages, and vast rural-mountainous regions, Nepal embodies the urgency and complexity of building inclusive knowledge systems. Many communities remain digitally disconnected and linguistically marginalized from global scientific discourse. Libraries, both physical and digital, are uniquely positioned to address these barriers. This paper highlights the evolving role of libraries in Nepal: enabling access to global research via open-source digital platforms (Koha, DSpace, ResourceSpace), curating local knowledge through institutional repositories, and supporting translation and dissemination of scientific content in Nepali and indigenous languages. It also examines initiatives such as the Nepal National Digital Library (NNDL), open journal databases, and the central role of Tribhuvan University Central Library (TUCL) as a national knowledge hub. At the regional level, the proposed Regional Federation of South Asian Library Associations (REFSALA) and collaborations with IFLA and UNESCO illustrate how cross-border partnerships can amplify Open Science goals. Solutions such as mobile digital libraries, multilingual publishing policies, and capacity-building workshops are discussed. Ultimately, this presentation advocates for libraries as inclusive agents of change—transforming mountains from barriers into bridges for global scientific participation. Nepal’s journey offers a replicable model for other developing nations striving for equitable and multilingual Open Science ecosystems. Keywords: Open Science, Multilingualism, Libraries in Nepal, Knowledge Equity, Indigenous Knowledge
Building a Sustainable Future for Resource Sharing in a Changing World: Findings on international resource sharing payment methods from global surveys
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-03) Pang, Xuan; Paris, Mark
Libraries around the world have relied on international resource sharing networks to support the institutional mission of teaching and learning, enrich their diverse user populations, and fulfill users’ needs. One of the major barriers for international resource sharing services is financial transactions. Issues on international resource sharing payment methods have repeatedly appeared in several studies over the past decade. Libraries across the globe are using different methods to pay and charge their international resource sharing borrowing and lending fees. This paper reviews the history and challenges of the international resource sharing payment systems and shares surveys’ results from the American Library Association Reference & User Services Association Sharing and Transforming Access to Resources Section International Interlibrary Loan Committee and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) technical committee 46/subcommittee 4/Ad Hoc Group 1 (hereinafter referenced as ISO TC 46/SC 4/AHG 1) for Interlibrary Loan Financial Transactions. The paper further discusses findings from these global surveys and makes recommendations for future development. Keywords: Resource Sharing; Financial transactions; Interoperability standards; Workflows; International perspectives
Enhancing Inclusive Bibliographic Data: A Study of Disability Terminology in the Subject Headings of the National Library of Indonesia
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-02) Mentari, Nadya
This study aims to examine the use and structure of disability-related subject headings in the National Library of Indonesia's controlled vocabulary system (Juliana) in relation to principles of inclusivity and bibliographic justice. The research adopts a qualitative content analysis approach to evaluate how disability terminology is applied in subject headings and metadata structures, referencing both the Juliana system and the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC). The analysis focuses on four disability categories as defined by Indonesian Law No. 8 of 2016: physical, intellectual, mental, and sensory disabilities. Findings reveal that while the National Library has made progressive efforts to adopt inclusive terms such as Persons with Disabilities, Tunadaksa (physical disability), and Tunanetra (blind), several stigmatizing and outdated terms such as Cacat Jiwa (mental handicap) and Sakit Mental (mentally ill) are still present in the system. Furthermore, many subject headings lack comprehensive semantic structures, including broader terms, narrower terms, and related terms, limiting their descriptive and retrieval functions. These challenges underscore the need to situate cataloging reform within the broader framework of Universal Bibliographic Control (UBC), a principle developed by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) that promotes the global availability of bibliographic data through nationally coordinated efforts. In the context of Juliana, aligning subject headings with UBC not only facilitates international interoperability and standardization but also ensures that local terminologies evolve in ways that are culturally sensitive, socially inclusive, and ethically grounded. The study concludes that metadata systems in libraries are not neutral but serve as symbolic instruments that reflect and shape social values. Strengthening semantic relationships, replacing stigmatizing terms with rights-based alternatives, and involving the disability community in vocabulary development are key strategies toward building a more inclusive and equitable bibliographic infrastructure. Keywords: disability terminology, subject headings, Universal Bibliographic Control, inclusive metadata, National Library of Indonesia
Leveraging Publisher Metadata for Universal Bibliographic Control
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-01) Niininen, Satu
This paper investigates the integration of publisher metadata into bibliographic control to enhance the coverage of online publications in Finland's national bibliography. As the volume and diversity of online publications expands, traditional cataloging methods face significant challenges in achieving representative coverage of the national output. In response to these challenges, the National Library of Finland has implemented an automatic workflow for converting ONIX metadata into finalised bibliographic records. The paper outlines the technical infrastructure and implementation process of the conversion workflow, while also discussing quality control measures to ensure the reliability of the national bibliography. Central to the discussion is the balance between the quality and quantity of metadata in relation to the Universal Bibliographic Control (UBC) core principle of metadata authoritativeness. The establishment of a strategic partnership between libraries, publishers, and vendors is instrumental in fostering a metadata ecosystem that prioritizes data integrity, thereby supporting national bibliographies in their role of providing reliable access to information. Ultimately, the necessity for continuous adaptation in bibliographic practices is highlighted as a method to effectively meet the demands of the evolving digital publishing landscape. Keywords: National Bibliographies, Universal Bibliographic Control, UBC, online publications, metadata
Open Books Hong Kong: Multilingualism and Bibliodiversity
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-07-01) Meunier, Benjamin; Lam, Jenny
Open Books Hong Kong (OBHK) is an innovative pilot project aimed at transforming the dissemination of academic monographs in Chinese. This initiative provides free access to high-quality research books from three university presses. By making 36 titles available for free online, OBHK ensures that anyone with an internet connection can access these valuable resources. The project emphasizes multilingualism and bibliodiversity, showcasing monographs primarily in Chinese, which is under-represented in Open Access (OA) research books. This approach not only democratizes access to knowledge but also promotes the diversity of scholarly communication, ensuring that research from different linguistic backgrounds is accessible globally. Challenges and Sustainability OA publishing in Hong Kong and China faces several challenges, including the need for robust infrastructure, and the difficulty of developing a long-term sustainable plan. The lack of OA outlets for Chinese monographs does a disservice to outstanding researchers who publish in Chinese. OBHK addresses this gap by publishing all titles with a Creative Commons license, granting the right to share content with attribution to the author. Despite the modest scale of the initial pilot, the ambition is to establish a sustainable approach to exposing the research of Hong Kong universities. Since its launch in July 2024, OBHK has garnered over 430,000 views from 170,000 visitors. The initiative has expanded its collection to include 36 monographs showcasing the high-calibre research published by Hong Kong’s university presses. The most popular book, "People’s West Lake," was viewed over 27,000 times. Open Books Hong Kong exemplifies the potential of Open Access to democratize knowledge and foster global academic collaboration. By prioritizing multilingualism and bibliodiversity, OBHK serves as a model for other regions and contributes to the broader goals of the IFLA Open Science and Scholarship Advisory Committee.
From the Kitchen to the Archive: Taking Cookbooks to Local History Researchers
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2025-06-19) Brannock, Jennifer
This presentation explores the often-overlooked historical and cultural significance of community cookbooks—those humble, spiral-bound compilations of recipes created by churches, schools, clubs, and grassroots women’s groups. Far more than mere culinary guides, these cookbooks serve as rich primary sources that document the lives, labor, values, and voices of women across generations. Librarians in Special Collections at the University of Southern Mississippi have prioritized collecting cookbooks from around the state. To increase use of these materials, the librarians have worked to incorporate cookbooks into library instruction to push students to look deeper at these resources. It’s a way to show the students that cookbooks can have value outside the recipes. Focusing on promoting research and use of the cookbooks, this talk will include an overview of the cookbook collection at the University of Southern Mississippi how the items can be used in research, and outreach efforts to the community and students at the university.
Las bibliotecas como guardianas y difusoras de información del conflicto en Colombia diapositivas
(2023-07-28) Márquez-Bustos, Natalia
The Colombian armed conflict, which has lasted over six decades, has left a deep impact on the country and over 8 million victims. As Colombia slowly moves towards a post-conflict era, documenting and preserving the truth about the events that occurred during the conflict is crucial for the country's reconciliation and future development. The Colombian government established the Truth Commission to investigate and document human rights violations committed during the conflict. However, the dissemination of this information to the public remains a significant challenge. This paper examines the role of libraries in preserving and disseminating information related to the conflict and, specially, the Truth Commission's report, which was published last year. The paper poses the question: how are libraries contributing to the dissemination of information related to the Colombian conflict, and what challenges do they face in doing so? To answer this question, the paper collects several strategies created by libraries and draws on interviews with librarians from institutions such as the Library of the Central Bank of Colombia and the National Center of Historical Memory. The paper argues that libraries play a critical role in disseminating information related to the Colombian conflict Furthermore, the paper identifies several challenges faced by libraries in the process and the solutions they have found to overcome them. These include: the importance of approaching the conflict from a human and ethical perspective, the use of technologies to reach remote communities, the need for interdisciplinary training for librarians, the importance of creating accessible narratives for the public, and collaborating with both public and private actors to enrich the work of libraries. The findings of this study have implications for other conflict zones around the world, as they shed light on libraries’ best practices and lessons learned in the pursuit of a lasting peace.
Libraries as Preservers and Disseminators of Information Related to the Colombian Conflict and the Truth Commission Report
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2023-07-28) Márquez-Bustos, Natalia
The Colombian armed conflict, which has lasted over six decades, has left a deep impact on the country and over 8 million victims. As Colombia slowly moves towards a post-conflict era, documenting and preserving the truth about the events that occurred during the conflict is crucial for the country's reconciliation and future development. The Colombian government established the Truth Commission to investigate and document human rights violations committed during the conflict. However, the dissemination of this information to the public remains a significant challenge. This paper examines the role of libraries in preserving and disseminating information related to the conflict and, specially, the Truth Commission's report, which was published last year. The paper poses the question: how are libraries contributing to the dissemination of information related to the Colombian conflict, and what challenges do they face in doing so? To answer this question, the paper collects several strategies created by libraries and draws on interviews with librarians from institutions such as the Library of the Central Bank of Colombia and the National Center of Historical Memory. The paper argues that libraries play a critical role in disseminating information related to the Colombian conflict Furthermore, the paper identifies several challenges faced by libraries in the process and the solutions they have found to overcome them. These include: the importance of approaching the conflict from a human and ethical perspective, the use of technologies to reach remote communities, the need for interdisciplinary training for librarians, the importance of creating accessible narratives for the public, and collaborating with both public and private actors to enrich the work of libraries. The findings of this study have implications for other conflict zones around the world, as they shed light on libraries’ best practices and lessons learned in the pursuit of a lasting peace.
International Library Cooperation and Trusted News in Times of War. Ukraine Art Aid Center
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2023-07) Bohn, Anna; Hamann, Olaf
This study explores the collaborative efforts of libraries within the Ukraine Art Aid Center network, dedicated to preserving cultural heritage during times of war. Emphasizing the vital role of international library cooperation, we investigate the dissemination of trusted news in the Russo-Ukrainian war. The first section examines Russia's use of (dis-)information as a weapon in the ongoing war. The second section clarifies key terminology distinctions related to disinformation, misinformation, fake news and deep fakes. In the third section, we scrutinize the importance of accurate language and wording to avoid manipulation and disinformation. The fourth section explores strategies to counter disinformation, empowering individuals to make informed decisions. Section five highlights the support provided by international library networks in aiding libraries and societies under attack, focusing on the Ukraine Art Aid Center (Zentrum Kulturgutschutz Ukraine). The sixth section presents curated information services and reliable news sources from Ukraine and exiled Russian media. The seventh section underscores libraries' role as providers of access to reliable information on war crimes and human rights violations.
Lies, damn lies, and fake news: toward a library science and digital curation-oriented methodology for web archiving national news and social media
(International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), 2023-08-23) Smyth, Tom J.
In recognition of their importance, the National Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has web archived Canadian news and social media since 2006. As part of our Web and Social Media Preservation Program collections development and methodological evolution, and to make advances in efficiency and in our ability to respond to and document unforeseen events of national historic or international significance, we started broadly web archiving front page news and social media from selected sources and in an automated manner in 2015. Since the web now constitutes an invaluable primary source for 21st century digital society and for the writing of future history, managed action is necessary to preserve it while it is available. The news media provides many perspectives and chronological descriptions of how any major event unfolded; social media provides the full spectrum of political, regional, economic, and cultural first-hand perspectives. This paper discusses the web archival strategies and methodologies developed at LAC that drive our news and social media evaluation and acquisition, with particular attention to the politics of “fake news”, COVID-19, and the invasion of Ukraine. It also describes the details of media collection in association with large-scale thematic web archival (research) and data collections – all of which is informed by the guiding principles of digital curation and preservation. Our deliberate targeting of 'fake news’ and 'extreme political viewpoints' will be explored, with arguments for its collection as source to support future inquiries and research in its own right. Ethical and legal considerations (or potential consequences!) libraries could face for labelling or excluding such content, and strategies for addressing this, are also provided.

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