Call for Papers: WLIC 2026 Joint Satellite Meeting at Pusan National University
Theme: “What is Library History? What is Information History?”
The IFLA Library Theory and Research Section and the Library History Special Interest Group call for presentations for the Satellite Meeting hosted by the Pusan National University of the Republic of Korea in Busan, Korea, on 7th August (morning) 2026.
Satellite Theme
Libraries worldwide are navigating a profound transformation, driven by the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, datafication, and the emergence of platform-based knowledge systems. In this rapidly shifting environment, historical inquiry, often viewed as retrospective, must be repositioned as a strategic and analytical tool for understanding present challenges and anticipating future developments.
This IFLA Satellite challenges traditional assumptions by framing library history (traditionally focused on institutions, professional practices, and public missions) and information history (which examines broader systems of knowledge production, circulation, and control) as essential lenses. Bringing these perspectives together illuminates how libraries function not merely as cultural institutions, but as critical infrastructural actors within evolving information ecosystems.
Venue: Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
Date: Friday, 7th August 2026
Time: 9:00-13:00 Busan Time
Call for Presentations
We invite submissions that address the central challenges of future global transformation, with particular interest in comparative and international perspectives on these issues, embodying the theme of mutual learning and exchange.
Topics for consideration include, but are not limited to, the following critical questions:
- How should we redefine library history in an age of algorithmic knowledge infrastructures, focusing on global and comparative contexts?
- What is the relationship between library history and the broader field of information history in a context of global, cross-cultural studies?
- Can historical analysis support strategic foresight and institutional decision-making across diverse library contexts globally?
- What lessons from past information revolutions can inform libraries’ responses to AI and automation, and how can these insights be shared across regions?
- How can libraries document and preserve their born-digital institutional memory, and what are the emerging international models for digital preservation?
- Use Cases in Library and Information History that highlight the adoption of new technologies, and methodological tools that utilize digital humanities and borrow technological tools such as GIS, machine learning, and AI.
- Historical Case studies from both library and information history that highlight and analyze institutional resilience and transformation in the face of technological and societal change in Korea and Asia
Proposal should be submitted in English and should include the following information:
- Title of the presentation
- Presentation abstract (300 words approx.)
- Presenters’ name(s), professional affiliation, country, email address, brief biographical note (100 words)
Timeline
- All proposals must be submitted by 29 May 2026.
- Proposals will be evaluated by the Satellite Program Committee group and successful applicants will be informed by 8 June 2026.
Selection Criteria
- Proposals will be reviewed by a panel of experts based on their relevance to the Satellite theme, originality, clarity, contribution to knowledge and potential impact.
- We aim to provide a diverse and international program that reflects the various perspectives and experiences.
Click here to submit a proposal
Please Note
- The meeting is an in-person event and all presentations will be made on site.
- All expenses, such as travel and accommodation, are the responsibility of the authors/presenters. Letters of invitation can be issued to presenters upon request.
- Use of Artificial Intelligence: The use of artificial intelligence tools in the preparation of papers for submission must be declared in submissions.
Organization
This IFLA WLIC 2026 Satellite Meeting is organized by the Library Theory and Research Section and the Library History Special Interest Group of IFLA. The host is the Pusan National University.
Questions should be submitted to:
Yasuyo Inoue | yinoue@dokkyo.ac.jp, Chair, IFLA Library Theory Section
Anna Maria Tammaro | annamaria.tammaro@unipr.it, Convener, IFLA LIBHIST Special Interest Group
Important Dates
- 29 May 2026 – Deadline for proposals
- 8 June 2026 – Notification of acceptance
- 31 July 2026 – Presentation slides submitted
- 7 August 2026 – Satellite Event