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.
Summit Spotlight: Highlights from Day 3 of IFLA Information Future Summit 2024
Prodip Roy, Brisbane, Australia
The IFLA Information Future Summit successfully completed its three-day programme, delving into the future of knowledge and information through the lens of trends, values, and mission alignment. The event, held from September 30 to October 2, 2024, at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre in Australia, brought together experts from around the world to discuss the trends shaping the library environment and how to align these with core values and missions.
Key Highlights of Day 3
Ana Filipa Vrdoljak Highlights Importance of Libraries as Public Common Good
The summit featured keynote speakers: Ana Filipa Vrdoljak, Professor of Law at the University of Technology Sydney and UNESCO Chair on International Law and Cultural Heritage
At the IFLA Information Future Summit 2024, renowned expert Ana Filipa Vrdoljak emphasised the vital importance of libraries and archives in fostering free, equitable, and inclusive societies. Despite facing numerous challenges, libraries are increasingly recognised internationally as essential institutions.
Ana cited key frameworks that underscore libraries’ critical role including:
- IFLA-UNESCO Public Library Manifesto 2022
- MONDIACULT Final Declaration 2022
- UNESCO Framework for Culture and Arts Education 2024
Emphasise libraries’ role in promoting:
- Human rights
- Sustainable development
- Peace and stability as a global common good.
The Information Futures Summit Concludes with a Visionary Brisbane Declaration.
The IFLA Information Future Summit concluded its three-day conference, fostering in-depth discussions on the future of knowledge and information. The event focused on both emerging trends and aligning library environments with core values and missions.
Shaping the Future of Information: IIFS 2024 Day 2 Recap
Prodip Roy- Brisbane, Australia
The second day of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Information Futures Summit (IIFS) 2024 kicked off with a captivating virtual conversation between Carla Hayden, 14th U.S. Librarian of Congress, and Kate Zwaard, Director of Digital Strategy at the Library of Congress. They joined live from Washington D.C., and shared insights on the future of information from the perspective of the world’s largest library.
Hayden and Zwaard discussed their strategic plans to stay ahead of the curve, emphasising innovation, community engagement, and leadership. They highlighted the importance of collaboration, digital transformation, and adapting to emerging technologies.
International library leaders gather in Brisbane for landmark summit 2024
Prodip Roy, Brisbane, Australia
The city is set to become the hub of global library innovation as the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Information Futures Summit (IIFS) 2024 kicks off on September 30.
The three-day conference, running until October 2, will convene at the state-of-the-art Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC).
This highly anticipated event promises to be a pivotal moment for library professionals, technologists, policymakers, and experts from diverse fields to converge and shape the future of libraries and information services.
Under the theme Stronger Together, IFLA President Vicki McDonald delivered a welcome speech, setting the tone for a collaborative and forward-thinking summit. With her wealth of experience as a senior leader in the library sector, having worked across public, academic, and research libraries, McDonald is uniquely positioned to inspire and guide the global library community.
Themed around navigating the complexities of the information landscape, IIFS 2024 promises to be a pivotal event for library professionals, technologists, policymakers, and experts from diverse fields. The summit boasts an impressive lineup of keynote speakers and panellists who will share visionary insights and expertise, shaping the future of libraries and information services.
Building an open society: Advancing open science through collaborative workshop
Md. Anwarul Islam
The “Dynamic Convergence” Open Science workshop brought together global experts to advance Open Science.
Md. Anwarul Islam, Professor in the Department of Information Science and Library Management at the University of Dhaka, participated in the “Dynamic Convergence” Open Science workshop held in Washington, D.C. on September 18-19, 2024. Organised by the Open Research Community Accelerator (ORCA) in collaboration with CERN, UNESCO, NASA, and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the event brought together approximately 100 participants from 31 countries.
RMIT university hosts Great Book Swap to promote literacy and cultural awareness
Melbourne, VIC
Prodip Roy, Melbourne
The Great Book Swap sale held across all 4 Melbourne campuses- Photo credit: Lenny de VriesLenny de Vries
RMIT University is proud to host the Great Book Swap, a charity event raising vital funds for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF). This initiative aims to promote cultural awareness, respect, and literacy among Indigenous children in remote Australian communities.
At the heart of the Summit: IIFS panellists
Join in Brisbane for the IFLA Information Futures Summit (IIFS), a three-day event that promises to broaden your perspectives and enrich your understanding. This upcoming summit offers an opportunity to explore new ideas, gain fresh insights, and engage with fellow professionals in a dynamic and thought-provoking environment.
L to R: Kepi Madumo, Leslie Weir, Virginia (Ginny) Barbour, Kirsten Thorpe, S. Kate Conroy, Anna Burkey, Rose Barrowcliffe, Nate Hill, Philip G Kent, Heather Zwicker, Kim Wilkins, Victoria Owen, Petra Lundgren, Te Paea Paringatai, Megan Daley, Richard Misilei, Fiona Bradley, Catherine Clark, Robert dhurwain McLellan, Dilara Begum
ALA Opens 2025 Annual Conference & Exhibition Call for Proposals
The American Library Association (ALA) is now accepting proposals for education programs and posters for its 2025 Annual Conference & Exhibition, scheduled for June 26-July 1, 2025, in Philadelphia. This premier event tackles pressing concerns in the library sector, offering a wide range of professional development opportunities focused on cutting-edge research, creative programming, strategic initiatives, and effective practices. The submission period is open until September 23, 2024.
Australian publishing industry faces uncertainty as Booktopia collapses
Booktopia, Australia’s leading online book retailer, has gone into voluntary administration. The collapse of the company, which was the primary sales channel for many small Australian publishers, has significant implications for the industry. While some in the industry are shocked by the development, others saw it coming.
Despite efforts to cut costs, the company was forced to sack 165 staff and cease taking new orders. The industry’s reliance on patriotic retailers to maintain diversity and financial viability has been highlighted.
With a smaller market and limited overseas sales, Australian publishers rely on local sales to succeed. A “best seller” in Australia is defined by modest sales numbers, making it challenging for publishers to remain profitable amidst rising costs and a shrinking reader base. Independent bookstores play a vital role in promoting diverse titles, while discount department stores drive sales volume. The industry’s future remains uncertain as it grapples with the collapse of Booktopia and the shifting landscape of book sales.