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.

Damian Cardona Onses: UN’s Quest for Information Integrity
Damian Cardona Onses, a strategic communications expert with over 26 years of experience in the United Nations system. Damian Cardona Onses shared insights on disinformation in virtual spaces and its real-world impacts, emphasising the importance of access to reliable information. Following the UN’s Global Principles for Information Integrity, Damian Cardona Onses shared expert insights on:
  • The UN’s efforts to promote reliable information
  • Libraries’ role in supporting information integrity
  • Collaborative strategies for combating disinformation
Ignite Talks
Ignite Talks provided a platform for diverse ideas and experiences from 19 countries across all IFLA Regional Divisions. Some notable talks included on day 3 are:
Storytelling in the Digital World: Shiyao Cheng from China discussed the ancient art of storytelling as effective advocacy for library narratives.
Strategic Alignment and Redefinition of Information: Jon Shaw from the United States explored open access initiatives in global research libraries.
Making Librarians Uncomfortable: Alex McManus from Australia challenged conventional thinking.
Libraries and Intergenerational Connectedness: Jessica Bruce from Australia highlighted libraries’ role in bridging generational gaps.
Global Queer Librarianship: Flic French from Australia advocated for inclusivity in libraries.
Singapore’s Library Chiefs: Harnessing AI for Success
Ng Cher Pong and Gene Tan, CEO and Chief Librarian of Singapore’s National Library Board, discussed transformative strategies for thriving in the face of technological advancements.
The discussion includes:
  • Transformative strategies for public libraries, National Library, and National Archives
  • Navigating challenges and opportunities of Generative AI
  • Adapting to technological advancements for sustainable growth
The Brisbane Declaration
The summit concluded with the launch of the Brisbane Declaration, a message to the world about the desired future of information and knowledge. This declaration is based on inputs from attendees throughout the summit and will serve as a guiding document for the library field.
Looking Ahead
The IFLA Information Future Summit marked a significant step forward in shaping the future of libraries and information. As the library community looks forward to IFLA’s World Library and Information Congress next year in Astana, the momentum from this summit will continue to inspire innovation and collaboration.