Call for Presentations for IFLA WLIC 2026 satellite conference
Satellite Meeting: Practical Implementations of artificial intelligence in Public Libraries
Submission deadline: April 10th 13.00 CET
Conference date: August 14th 2026
Venue: Seoul City Hall with a reception at Seoul Metropolitan Library
Organisers: IFLA Public Libraries Section with IFLA IT section and IFLA AI SIG
Host: Seoul Metropolitan Library
In conjunction with the IFLA WLIC 2026 “Libraries Powering Transformation” held in Busan, Korea, from August 10-13, 2026, the IFLA Public Libraries section is pleased to announce a satellite conference focused on the practical implementations of artificial intelligence in public libraries in collaboration with the IFLA IT section and the IFLA AI Special Interest Group.
Conference Theme: The satellite conference will explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in public libraries, including both generative AI and non-generative AI applications. We invite presentations that showcase actual implementations of AI in public libraries or propose innovative ideas that could be implemented in the future.
Keynote: Overdrive CEO, Steve Potash, will deliver a keynote on AI implementation in the readers advisory capacity within the Libby Library application
Topics of Interest: We welcome submissions on a wide range of topics related to AI in public libraries, including – but not limited to – examples listed below. See also italicized note under submission guidelines.
- AI tools used in physical libraries for information dissemination
- Creating exhibitions and designing spaces with AI
- Reading guides and literature promotion using AI
- Virtual librarians or chatbots in digital libraries
- AI applications for library management and patron services
- Innovative AI solutions for enhancing library services
- AI literacy programs
Submission Guidelines: Interested participants are invited to submit an abstract of their presentation. The abstract should be no more than 300 words and should clearly outline the topic, the AI technology involved, and the practical implications for public libraries.
Email to: ifla2026@db.dk before April 10th 13.00 CET
NB: Priority will be given to submissions describing actual implementations.
Important Dates:
- Abstract submission deadline: April 10th00 CET
- Notification of acceptance: May 1st00 CET
Organizers: This conference is organized by the IFLA Public Libraries Section in collaboration with the IFLA IT section and the IFLA AI Special Interest Group.
Host: Seoul Metropolitan Library is graciously hosting the satellite conference.
Target Audience: This conference is designed for library professionals, researchers, technologists, and anyone interested in the intersection of AI and public libraries.
Benefits of attending:
- Learn about the latest AI technologies and their applications in public libraries
- Network with professionals and experts in the field
- Share your experiences and insights with a global audience
Contact Information: For inquiries and abstract submissions, please contact:
Mikkel Christoffersen, deputy director of the Danish Library Association at mc@db.dk
We look forward to your contributions and to exploring the exciting possibilities of AI in public libraries together!