The IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) has been an annual event for members, volunteers, stakeholders and sponsors to gather together in different regions of the world to discuss everything library and conduct IFLA business. Members and volunteers have encouraged IFLA to review the congress, from its purpose, role, programme, frequency, location, financials, and more, to ensure its role, impact, relevancy and sustainability for the IFLA global library community.

The IFLA Governing Board, under the leadership of President Vicki McDonald, has launched the IFLA WLIC Review Steering Committee that is charged with overseeing this review. IFLA President-elect Leslie Weir is chairing the Steering Committee working with member representatives from the Governing Board, Professional Council, Regional Council, new professionals, members and volunteers with IFLA HQ staff.

Steering Committee members include:

  • Leslie Weir (Chair)
  • Stuart Hamilton
  • Loida Garcia-Febo
  • Ann Okerson
  • Ayanda Labele
  • Magdalena Gomulka
  • Randa Al Chidiac
  • Loy Jyoon Chin

Secretariat (IFLA HQ):

  • Helen Mandl
  • Marie-Emmanuelle Marande

The Steering Committee, launched in January 2024, will complete its review by December 2024. It has begun its review by considering such questions as:

  • Does IFLA need a congress?
  • What is the purpose behind IFLA organising the WLIC?
  • What are the benefits of IFLA organising the WLIC?
  • Why does the library field need an event like WLIC?
  • Should WILC be an annual event?
  • What makes the WLIC special?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of hosting WLIC in various global regions?
  • How can IFLA ensure WLIC can be more affordable and inclusive for libraries in developing countries to host and attend?
  • Should we explore different programming approaches?
  • And more . . .

Three subcommittees will support the work on the review:

  • Content and Programme, chaired by Julius Jefferson;
  • Financing New Models, chaired by Jaap Naber;
  • Sponsors & Industry Vendors, chaired by Jan Richards

Members, volunteers and stakeholders will have many opportunities to provide input to the review through pulse surveys, focus groups and at various IFLA-sponsored events in the coming months. Watch this space for regular updates throughout the year. A major progress report will be provided to the IFLA community coinciding with the IFLA Information Futures Summit in October 2024.

Join us in re-envisioning the World Library and Information Congress to serve the IFLA global community for 2026 and beyond!