Information literacy is the ability of individuals to locate, evaluate, and effectively use information. It involves skills such as searching for reliable sources, critically assessing information, and using that information for actions such as research or problem-solving. Libraries, as information spaces, promote and teach information literacy to patrons.

The Information Literacy Section provides an international platform for libraries and educational communities to share and improve information literacy practices, research in IFLA and with the broader library community. Working collaboratively with international and education communities, the Section organise programmes and activities that focus on various aspects of information literacy and areas for professional development, research and practice, education and training.

As an academic librarian interested in the intersection of information literacy, educational technology, and digital spaces and Chair of IFLA’s Information Literacy Section, EDUCAUSE has been one of my go-to sources to keep abreast of current issues in the field. In its 2023 Education Trend Watch, demand for improved data literacy skills is ranked #10 on the 2023 trend in higher education list.

Many institutions have begun planning or are already offering interdisciplinary courses and short-term academies related to data literacy and skills to ensure that all students are exposed to data science. Others are incorporating content into required first-year courses, covering topics from information and digital literacy to data analytics and privacy.

I encourage you to take part in conversations around advancing data literacy education within your own universities and professional networks and to engage with our section around these topics.

Ning Zou, Chair, IFLA Information Literacy Section