Save the Date – Satellite Conference: Friday 14th August, 2026, Seoul, South Korea
Practical Implementations of Artificial Intelligence in Public Libraries
The IFLA Public Libraries Section, together with the IFLA Information Technology and IFLA Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group, invites you to save the date for a satellite conference dedicated to the practical implementations of artificial intelligence in public libraries.
Held in conjunction with IFLA World Library Information Congress 2026 – “Libraries Powering Transformation’ in Busan, Korea (10-13 August 2026), this event will bring together library staff, technologists, and innovators to share real-world experiences and future-focused ideas on AI in public library contexts.
EVENT DETAILS
- Practical Implementations of Artificial Intelligence in Public Libraries
- DATE: Friday, 14 August 2026
- VENUE: Seoul City Hall
- HOSTED by: Seoul Metropolitan Libraries
- ORGANISERS:
- IFLA Public Library Section
- IFLA Information Technology Section
- IFLA Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group
Please mark this date in your calendar when planning to attend the IFLA WLIC 2026 in Busan, or if you are interested in AI and its impact on public library practice in the region.
SATELLITE FOCUS
This satellite will explore how artificial intelligence- including both generative AI and non-generative AI – is being used in public libraries today and how it could shape our services tomorrow. The program will highlight case studies, tools, policies, and evaluation approaches that help library staff understand what AI can do in practice – beyond the hype.
CALL FOR PAPERS TO FOLLOW
A formal call for papers and presentations will follow and we encourage all librarians to start thinking about proposals in the following areas (and beyond)
- AI tolls used in physical library spaces for information dissemination and wayfinding
- Using AI to create exhibitions, design spaces, and support participatory design
- Reading guides, recommendations, and literature promotion supported by AI
- Virtual librarians or chatbots in digital library environments
- AI applications for library management, workflows, and patron services
- Innovative AI solutions for enhancing access, inclusion or user experience
- AI literacy programs for communities, including ethical and critical perspectives
WHO SHOULD “SAVE THE DATE”?
This satellite conference will be of particular interest to:
- Public Library Managers and front-line staff
- Library technologists and systems librarians
- Library Policy makers and strategic planners
- Vendors, developers, and partners working with AI in libraries
- Researchers and educators in LIS and related fields
If you are exploring AI in your library – or planning to – this event is designed for you.
Registration information and a program outline will be shared shortly.
For now please:
- Save the date: Friday 14th August 2026
- Plan your travel: Combine your trip to IFLA WLIC 2026 in Busan with this satellite conference in Seoul
We look forward to welcoming you to Seoul for a day of inspiration, practical insights, and fruitful discussions on the future of AI in public libraries.