Historic Inauguration of IFLA Congress Takes Place in Astana, Central Asia's First Hosting of Such Event
89th World Library and Information Congress Held in Astana
Astana, Kazakhstan, has become a hub for cultural, educational, and professional exchange, as it hosted the 89th World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) from August 18 to 24. This is the first time Central Asia has hosted the world's largest gathering of library and information professionals.
The Congress, themed "Connecting Knowledge, Building the Future," attracted nearly 1,700 participants from 114 countries. Kazakhstan won the right to host the event through a bid prepared by Kazakh Tourism, Visit Astana, and the Association of University Libraries of Kazakhstan.
The key topics and discussions at the WLIC focused on the evolving role of libraries in the digital era. Highlights included:
- Artificial intelligence and big data: Sessions explored how these technologies can enhance information access, library services, and knowledge sharing.
- Digital libraries: Guidelines and best practices for developing and managing digital library collections were a major focus.
- Preservation of collections: Techniques and strategies for preserving fragile and valuable library materials in the digital age were discussed.
- Inclusivity: Emphasis on expanding equitable access to information and fostering inclusive library environments was highlighted.
- Cataloging standards, including Universal Machine Readable Cataloging (UNIMARC): UNIMARC's role as an international standard that enables consistent bibliographic records to be shared across countries and systems was a notable topic.
Sessions at the Congress also discussed libraries' evolving role in the digital age, including partnerships to expand access to information, strengthen community networks, and prepare societies for technological change. Equitable access to knowledge was a recurring theme, with discussions on open science and sustainability, including case studies on India's One Nation One Subscription initiative and university projects tied to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Another session explored how AI can be integrated into library programs while addressing ethical considerations. The common ground between libraries and post offices was also highlighted, noting that both serve as trusted community hubs.
Kazakh Vice Minister of Science and Higher Education Talgat Yeshenkulov emphasized the government's focus on university libraries and their integration of electronic platforms, remote access to scientific databases, multilingual resources, and immersive technologies.
IFLA President Vicki McDonald noted that this year has the highest percentage of first-time delegates to an IFLA congress. She highlighted the Congress as a platform to exchange values and strengthen the collective voice of the library profession.
The Congress offered more than 80 professional sessions and 15 side events on various topics, including artificial intelligence, digital libraries, and cataloging standards. In addition to the formal sessions, cultural programs and visits to local libraries illustrated national investments in modern learning environments.
Gulzhan Irzhanova, a representative from the Kazakh government, emphasized the country's deep cultural roots, referencing the historic role of Otyrar, Taraz, Sairam, and Turkistan as centers of knowledge and the Otyrar Library as a hallmark of the region's scholarly heritage.
IFLA Secretary General Sharon Memis highlighted the sense of belonging the congress creates and the vast potential of the library and information field, strengthened by a global network, a trusted professional identity, and values rooted in openness, equity, and transparency. The Congress marked a significant milestone in establishing Astana as a hub for cultural, educational, and professional exchange in libraries and information science.
[1] Kazakhstan Wins Bid to Host World Library and Information Congress
[2] Astana to Host the World Library and Information Congress
[3] Astana to Host the World Library and Information Congress: Connecting Knowledge, Building the Future
[4] WLIC 2022: Connecting Knowledge, Building the Future
