Theme: “Protecting Knowledge in Times of Crisis: Disaster Planning for a Transforming Information Landscape“
Introduction
The IFLA Preservation & Conservation Section (PRESCON) and Advisory Committee on Cultural Heritage (CCH) are seeking proposals for papers to be presented at a session to be held at the IFLA World Library and Information Congress in Busan, South Korea, 10-13 August 2026.
As the global information landscape grows increasingly complex, libraries face evolving challenges in safeguarding knowledge during times of crisis. Disaster planning—once centered primarily on protecting physical collections—now encompasses digital integrity, data security, intellectual freedom, and the preservation of diverse cultural and Indigenous knowledge. This session examines how libraries can anticipate, respond to, and shape the future of information resilience in an era defined by rapid technological change, climate instability, and shifting user expectations.
Through case studies, research, and practical reports, the session will explore how disaster preparedness intersects with open knowledge, privacy, digital preservation, and the ethical use of emerging technologies such as generative AI. It will highlight strategies that strengthen the trustworthiness, accessibility, and continuity of information as a public good, even under the pressures of disruption.
Suggested Topics (papers should reflect the conference theme, “Libraries Powering Transformation”
- AI
- Security
- Ethical use of information and emerging technologies
Important dates and deadlines
- Friday, 1 May 2026: Deadline for submission of proposals/abstracts
- Friday, 22 May 2026: Notification to authors about the status of a submission
- Friday, 22 June 2026: Submission of the full text of the paper
- Monday,13 July 2026: Submission of accompanying PowerPoint slides for presentation
Submission Guidelines
Proposals should include:
- Title of proposed presentation
- Abstract of proposed paper (no more than 300 words)
- Name of presenter plus position and/or title
- Employer / affiliated institution
- Contact information including email address, telephone number
- Short biographical statement of presenter
Submit the proposal via email to: Beth Kilmarx director@bostonmedicallibrary.org
Use the subject line: PRESCONS WLIC PROPOSAL
Please note:
- At least one of the paper’s authors must be present to summarize the paper during the program in Busan. Abstracts are to be submitted only with the understanding that the
- Expenses of attending the conference will be the responsibility of the author(s)/presenter(s) of accepted papers.
- All papers must use the WLIC Paper template, which will be provided when your paper is accepted
- The language of the session is expected to be English.
- All papers presented at the WLIC 2025 will be available online under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license.
- All papers must be unpublished and not previously presented.
- Authors must disclose whether they submit this proposal to another WLIC 2026 session.
- Authors of accepted papers must complete the IFLA Authors’ Permission Form.
- Authors and presenters must adhere to the Presenter guidelines provided when your paper is accepted
- All expenses, including registration for the conference, travel, accommodations, etc., are the responsibility of the authors/presenters. IFLA does not provide any financial support.
Congress Participation Grants
A list of opportunities for support is available on the Grants and Awards page of the WLIC website.