In 2007, Weinberger wrote about the internet’s connected digitization of knowledge that requires relinquishing control of how we organize pretty much everything; he envisioned an ever-changing array of “useful, powerful and beautiful ways” to make sense of our world. He talked about how the digital world was providing a new way to order info without establishing taxonomies ahead of time and putting much more power in the hands of users. Eighteen years later, and after 7 years of writing about AI, Weinberger thinks that our new tech is showing that we've already started reconceiving our world as a high dimensionality space in which all is related to all else and taxonomies are reductive tools. He talks about how multidimensionality can be more helpful than taxonomies, and how AI recommendation/sorting algorithms could help achieve the idea of “community-based organization" more easily, more precisely, and with very fluid ways of intersecting with other communities’ ways of thinking. Join this interactive and interesting conversation as Edson interviews Weinberger!

Check back soon for details.

Library spaces and collections are evolving to provide new and exciting engagement opportunities, and technology is enhancing the possibilities. Bringing visibility to library collections and programs beyond physical books is critical for today’s library audiences. They are expecting interactive experiences designed to inspire exploration, discovery, and serendipity. So how do we enable collaboration, interaction, and contribution with our communities, helping them to make new connections within the realm of their studies, research, and learning? How do we visualize and activate both our physical and digital collections? Join our speaker for insights and ideas!

Our speaker discusses the evolving accessibility and disability laws in the U.S. and globally, including the European Accessibility Act (EAA). She highlights the implications for libraries and how Clarivate is helping to leverage accessible technology and inclusive design to ensure digital accessibility for all users.

In 2006, CIL alum Helene Blowers created a world-wide learning program, 23 Things, for libraries to engage all staff in adopting and using Web 2.0 and new technologies, giving them time and a step-by-step program to do so. Edson has created a 23 Climate Change Things. Is it time to do the same for AI? What do library folks need to learn about AI? How can they play with different tools? Bring your thoughts and ideas to this interactive discussion which hopefully will lead to some action! In addition, hear about some fascinating opportunities for partnerships around AI and ethical use of AI that libraries might consider. IFLA is in the process of co-authoring a policy brief with UNESCO on the role of libraries in ethical AI, especially in terms of the UNESCO AI Ethics Recommendation, so get more ideas and insights!

Libraries are at a pivotal crossroads—balancing innovation, cost-efficiency, and customer experience. This session explores when open-source software empowers libraries to break free from vendor lock-in, and when it might create more headaches than solutions. Paul will also dive into the critical need for single sign-on authentication for digital content, hopefully making the case for libraries to band together and demand that vendors support seamless patron access via library card and PIN. It’s time for libraries to lead the charge in shaping the future of digital access—on their own terms.

Our library leaders share their priorities, new ideas, and strategies for evolving libraries and communities to make a positive impact. They focus on what’s important and doing things differently, using multiple channels and mediums to do so.