EWU hosts 4th international information and knowledge management conference
Md. Ahasan Habib
Melbourne, 19 September 2025
East West University (EWU) successfully organised the 4th International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management (i-IKM 2025) under the theme “From Access to Action: Rethinking Information Practices in an AI-driven Society.” The event was hosted by the Department of Information Studies.
East West University hosts the 4th International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management (i-IKM 2025) Photo- supplied
The inaugural session, held on 16 September at the EWU campus, was graced by Professor Dr. Shams Rahman, Vice Chancellor of EWU, as the Chief Guest. The session was chaired by Professor Dr. M. Ashik Mosaddik, Pro Vice Chancellor of EWU, while the welcome address was delivered by Professor Dr. Dilara Begum, Chairperson of the Department of Information Studies.
In his keynote remarks, Professor Rahman highlighted the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI), noting:
“AI is influencing almost every aspect of life today. Its use is rapidly expanding not just in technology or data science, but also in education, health, business, agriculture, and even security. However, it is crucial to understand the pros and cons of AI before using it. If used incorrectly in business and administration, AI can lead to problems ranging from financial losses to customer dissatisfaction. In the age of AI, it is difficult to determine what is false, what is misinformation, and what is disinformation.”
Other distinguished speakers included Dr. Hajime Shirasaka (Japan), with keynote speeches delivered by Professor Bernd Markscheffel (Germany) and Professor Jean-Charles Lamirel (France). Professor Dr. Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of EWU and former Governor of Bangladesh Bank, also attended the opening ceremony.
On the inaugural day, a virtual session featured the presentation of 11 research papers by scholars from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Finland. This session was chaired by Professor Dr. Dilara Begum.
Day two of the conference saw parallel sessions across three halls at EWU, where a large number of academics, professionals, and students from home and abroad presented their papers.
The 4th International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management (i-IKM 2025) at East West University was graced by Professor Dr. Shams Rahman, Vice Chancellor of EWU, as Chief Guest
The closing ceremony featured the distribution of certificates and the announcement of best paper awards. Mr. Md. Liton Ali, Assistant Cataloguer at the Islamic University of Technology (IUT), received the award for his paper “GenAI—Stay Out of It or Find a Suitable Way to Incorporate It? A Policy Review of Academic Publishers and Universities.” Another award went to Professor Dr. Muhammed Shahriar Haque (Department of English, EWU) and Ms. Farina Haque, Senior Lecturer, BRAC Institute of Languages, for their paper “Ethical Guidelines in AI Policies for Teaching-Learning Languages, Research and Publication in the Global South: A Roadmap.”
Enriching libraries, enriching minds: A national commitment
Md. Anwarul Islam
Photo – Department of Information Science and Library Management (ISLM) at the University of Dhaka commemorated National Library Day
On 5 February 2025, the Department of Information Science and Library Management (ISLM) at the University of Dhaka commemorated National Library Day with a series of events. The celebration began with a rally at 10:00 am, inaugurated by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) of the University of Dhaka, Professor Dr Mamun Ahmed. The event was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Dr Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, the Chairman of the ISLM Department, faculty members, and students. The rally, showcasing various themes, slogans, and festoons, passed through different parts of the university campus. Following the rally, a seminar was organised, with Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Dr Sayema Haque Bidisha, joining as the chief guest and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts as the special guest.
Inauguration of the central library and archive at Gono Bishwabidyalay
Photo: Inauguration of the central library and archive at Gono Bishwabidyalay by Shagufta
On January 7, 2025, the central library and archive of Gono Bishwabidyalay was officially inaugurated in honor of the birthday of Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury, the esteemed founder of the institution. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of notable dignitaries, faculty members, and library staff, making it a memorable occasion for all attendees.
The inauguration event commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Shireen Haque, Head of the Women Affairs Reform Commission and wife of Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury. Her presence underscored the significance of the event in celebrating Dr. Chowdhury’s enduring legacy. A special memorial publication on Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury was unveiled from the archive section, commemorating his contributions and visionary leadership.
During the ceremony, Professor Sirajul Islam Chowdhury, former President of the Board of Trustees and Professor Emeritus of Dhaka University, delivered a heartfelt tribute. He described Dr. Zafrullah as a multifaceted genius, akin to Rabindranath Tagore, emphasizing the necessity of conducting extensive research on his life and work.
IFLA Launches Nominations Process for Over 800 Positions on Committees
The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) officially opened the nominations process for more than 800 positions across its numerous committees. The six-week nomination period provides an opportunity for library professionals from all corners of the globe to step forward and contribute to shaping the future of the profession.
This is a call to action for individuals who are committed to driving positive change in librarianship. IFLA is seeking candidates with energy, expertise, and a passion for empowering its Governing Board, councils, and committees. The organisation emphasises the need for active and dedicated professionals from diverse backgrounds to participate fully in initiatives that advance the global library field.
From strategic policy discussions to hands-on committee work, the positions cater to a wide range of interests and expertise. These roles offer a chance to bring international perspectives into action, fostering a vibrant and inclusive professional environment.
Wishing You a Happy and Inspiring New Year 2025!
Dear Librarians Community,
As we turn the page to a brand-new year, we at The Librarian Times want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support, enthusiasm, and passion for libraries, information, and the world of learning.
This past year has been one of growth, collaboration, and discovery, and we are incredibly grateful to have had you along on this journey. Whether you’re a librarian, library lover, or simply a supporter of knowledge and access, your engagement and contributions have been the heart of our community.
As we step into 2025, we look forward to bringing you more inspiring stories, updates on trends in the library world, and celebrating the incredible impact libraries have on our societies. Together, let’s make this year even more meaningful and transformative.
Happy New Year to you and your loved ones! May 2025 bring you joy, prosperity, and success in all your endeavors.
Warm regards,
Prodip Roy
Editor, The Librarian Times
The New York Times Names its Top 10 Books of 2024
Published Dec. 3, 2024 Updated Dec. 5, 2024
At the Book Review, the team spends the entire year preparing for this moment. The process of selecting the annual best-of list begins in the spring, with heated debates over their favorite picks. By the fall, they were gearing up for intense discussions.
The goal is to highlight books that have left a lasting impact: stories that have resonated deeply and examinations of lives that have broadened their understanding of what they thought they already knew.
These books are explored in a special edition of the Book Review podcast, with three selections analysed in a concise video. For more recommendations, readers can explore the full list of 100 Notable Books of 2024 or browse through a collection of every book named the best since 2000.
Reid revitalisation: The University of Western Australia’s landmark library reimagined
Photo: from website University of Western Australia
Located in the center of UWA’s Crawley campus, the Reid Library has been a symbol of knowledge and collaboration, attracting over one million visitors annually.
Since its opening in 1964, the library has served as a vital hub for students, providing various learning spaces for countless study sessions, group discussions, and quiet reflection.
Now, after six decades, level one of this student-focused space is nearing the completion of a major transformation, paving the way for a new era and the next generation of learners.
ISLM Career Counseling Club (ISLM3C) hosts a session for higher studies in Australia
Md. Anwarul Islam
DU, Dhaka 20 December, 2024
Photo: ISLM Career Counseling Club (ISLM3C) hosts an engaging session on higher studies opportunities in Australia, featuring insights from Mrs. Rowshon Akter, a recipient of the Australian Leadership Award and Monash University graduate.
The ISLM Career Counseling Club (ISLM3C) of the Department of Information Science and Library Management (ISLM), University of Dhaka, organised a session titled –Exploring Higher Studies Opportunities in Australia: Your Pathway to Global Success.
Approximately 100 students from various semesters attended the session and actively engaged in discussions about higher education opportunities, challenges, and future prospects shared by the speaker, Mrs. Rowshon Akter, a faculty member of the ISLM Department.
Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2024: University of Dhaka Marks Significant Event
Md. Anwarul Islam
DU, Dhaka 20 December, 2024
Photo: The New Digital Frontiers of Information: Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information
Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week is celebrated worldwide from October 24 to 31. This year, the Department of Information Science and Library Management (ISLM) at the University of Dhaka, in collaboration with UNESCO Dhaka and the South Asia Chapter of the Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T), organised a seminar titled “The New Digital Frontiers of Information: Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information.”
The seminar featured Honorable Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed as Chief Guest. Special guests included UNESCO Dhaka’s Communication and Information Sector Lead Ms. Noore Jannat Proma and Dr. Md. Moniruzzaman, former head of the United Nations Information Center, Dhaka.
Leading Libraries into the Future: An Exclusive Interview with Lbrn Dominic Omokaro, President of the Nigerian Library Association
Prodip Roy, Melbourne
Photo: Lbrn Dominic Omokaro, President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Library Association (NLA).
The Librarian Times is honored to present an exclusive interview with Lbrn Dominic Omokaro, President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Library Association (NLA). On the sidelines of the prestigious IFLA Information Future Summit 2024 in Brisbane, the editor of The Librarian Times had the privilege of sitting down with Lbrn Omokaro to discuss his remarkable journey as the 22nd president of the NLA.
As a seasoned librarian and passionate advocate for the profession, Lbrn Omokaro shares insights into his leadership experiences, notable achievements, and vision for the future of libraries in Nigeria. From navigating post-COVID challenges to embracing technological advancements, he offers a unique perspective on the evolving role of libraries in the digital age.
In this engaging conversation, Lbrn Omokaro reflects on his presidency, highlighting key initiatives, collaborations and strategies for addressing the challenges facing Nigerian libraries. His thoughts on the impact of AI, literacy promotion and community engagement provide valuable lessons for librarians globally.