IFLA Journal. March 2026 [Special Issue: Indigenous Knowledge]

Abstract

This special issue of IFLA Journal is dedicated to Indigenous Knowledge, foregrounding Indigenous authority, voice, and agency in libraries, archives, and museums. Emerging from the 2024 symposium in Mexico City, “Stewarding Indigenous Knowledge through ethics, law and the archive,” co-sponsored by IFLA’s Indigenous Matters Section and partners, the issue centers Indigenous expertise in reshaping professional practice. The contributions examine legal developments affecting traditional cultural expressions, collaborations between Indigenous communities and heritage institutions, Indigenous data governance, language revitalization, climate adaptation, and community-based library models. Together, they advance ethical stewardship grounded in consultation, co-curation, and respect for sovereignty. Guest editors: Jade Alburo, Sara R. Benson, Raj Kumar Bhardwaj, Collence Takaingenhamo Chisita, Mohit Garg, Melissa G. Ocepek, Melissa M. VandeBurgt, and Damien Webb bring deep expertise in Indigenous librarianship, copyright, cultural heritage law, and community-engaged scholarship, modeling the collaborative and cross-cultural leadership that defines this issue.