Call for Abstracts

IATUL 46th Annual Conference

Theme: Navigating the Future of Knowledge: Empowering Librarians Amidst Technological, Financial, and Role Transformation for Societal Impact.

Submission Deadline: 19 June 2026

Submit Your Abstract

Global Call to Action: Shape the Future of Libraries!

Under the theme “ Navigating the Future of Knowledge: Empowering Librarians Amidst Technological, Financial, and Role Transformation for Societal Impact,” the conference will spotlight the evolving leadership role of librarians in an increasingly complex information landscape, where data, AI, social engagement, and strategic advocacy are reshaping both expectations and impact.

IATUL 2026

This is your opportunity to:

01

Share groundbreaking research

02

Connect with global leaders shaping the next chapter of librarianship

03

Showcase transformative practices

Join the movement. Be part of the conversation. Lead the change. Submit your proposal and help shape the library of the future!

Sub Themes Themes

1. AI, Data, and Digital Transformation Across Library Ecosystems

As libraries evolve within data-rich, AI-enabled environments, this sub-theme explores how technology is reshaping every dimension of librarianship from operations and analytics to service design and research support.

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2. Transforming Scholarly Communication and Research Support

Libraries play a pivotal role in reimagining the research lifecycle, from knowledge creation and open-access publishing to data stewardship and impact measurement.

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3. Leadership, Skills, and Sustainability for the Future Library

In an era of rapid technological, financial, and institutional transformation, library leaders are called upon to foster resilience, innovation, and adaptability.

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4. Equity, Ethics, and Digital Inclusion

As digital transformation accelerates, libraries must ensure equitable access, ethical practice, and inclusivity across all communities.

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5. Reimagining Library Spaces, Experiences, and Engagement

The library’s physical and digital environments remain vital to learning, innovation, and community building. This theme examines how libraries connect with their users through both design and storytelling.

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6. Empowering Learning in the Age of AI and Open Knowledge

Librarians are critical partners in developing information and digital literacy competencies that empower lifelong learning. This sub-theme highlights innovative pedagogies and collaborations that enhance teaching and learning.

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Submission Guidelines

  • Submission Deadline:  19 June 2026
  • Abstract length: 300- 350 words

Presenters of accepted Abstracts will be invited to present in-person in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Selected submissions may be considered for inclusion in the IATUL Conference Proceedings.

Submission Portal

Contact

For more information or inquiries, please contact: Conference organisers at iatul2026@uj.ac.za

Join us as we reimagine the library’s mission, values, and future impact on global knowledge.

1. AI, Data, and Digital Transformation Across Library Ecosystems

As libraries evolve within data-rich, AI-enabled environments, this sub-theme explores how technology is reshaping every dimension of librarianship from operations and analytics to service design and research support.
Contributions may examine:

  • AI and data analytics in decision-making, collection management, and user engagement
  • Predictive analytics and automation in library services
  • Data governance, digital ethics, and algorithmic transparency
  • Integrating emerging technologies for enhanced user experience and institutional impact
  • AI literacy and capacity building for library staff and users

IATUL 2026

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2. Transforming Scholarly Communication and Research Support

Libraries play a pivotal role in reimagining the research lifecycle, from knowledge creation and open-access publishing to data stewardship and impact measurement.
This sub-theme invites contributions that address:

  • Open science, open access, and institutional repositories
  • Research data management and digital scholarship support
  • AI in research: opportunities, risks, and ethical guidance
  • Measuring research impact beyond traditional metrics
  • Upholding research integrity in the face of predatory and AI-generated content
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration and libraries as strategic research partners

IATUL 2026

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3. Leadership, Skills, and Sustainability for the Future Library

In an era of rapid technological, financial, and institutional transformation, library leaders are called upon to foster resilience, innovation, and adaptability.
This sub-theme explores:

  •  Leadership strategies for digital and organisational transformation
  • Upskilling and reskilling for data, AI, and open knowledge environments
  • Building inclusive, future-ready teams and succession planning
  • Sustainable funding and strategic resource management
  •  The evolving identity and value proposition of the academic library

IATUL 2026

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4. Equity, Ethics, and Digital Inclusion

As digital transformation accelerates, libraries must ensure equitable access, ethical practice, and inclusivity across all communities.
This sub-theme focuses on:

  • Inclusive digital library design and universal accessibility
  • Addressing bias and promoting ethical AI adoption
  •  Diversity and representation in metadata, discovery tools, and collections
  • Libraries as advocates for social justice and equitable knowledge access
  •  Ethical frameworks for data use, privacy, and emerging technologies

IATUL 2026

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5. Reimagining Library Spaces, Experiences, and Engagement

The library’s physical and digital environments remain vital to learning, innovation, and community building. This theme examines how libraries connect with their users through both design and storytelling.
Possible topics include:

  • Redesigning hybrid library spaces for flexibility, collaboration, and innovation
  • Data-driven marketing and social media for visibility and impact
  • Brand storytelling and community engagement through digital platforms
  • Design thinking for user-centred services and experiences
  • Libraries as “third spaces” fostering creativity and connection

IATUL 2026

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6. Empowering Learning in the Age of AI and Open Knowledge

Librarians are critical partners in developing information and digital literacy competencies that empower lifelong learning. This sub-theme highlights innovative pedagogies and collaborations that enhance teaching and learning.
Contributions may explore:

  •  Innovative pedagogies in information literacy and digital fluency
  • AI and emerging technologies in library instruction
  • Inclusive and culturally responsive teaching practices
  • Librarians as embedded teaching partners in curricula
  • Open Educational Resources (OER) and sustainable learning pathways
  • Evaluating the impact of library teaching on student success

IATUL 2026

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