Beyond Boundaries: New Modes of Access and Accessibility through Emerging Technologies

A symposium at University of Macau, March 25-27 2026

Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Digital Holography, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Multilingual Technologies

Introduction

The Information Technology Section of IFLA, in collaboration with the IFLA Asia-Oceania Regional Division, invites library and information professionals, researchers, technologists, and policymakers to participate in a three-day Regional Symposium to be held at the University of Macau on March 25th-27th 2026.

Libraries are experiencing rapid technological transformation alongside rising expectations for inclusive, accessible, and multilingual services. Immersive and AI-driven technologies are reshaping discovery, learning, and engagement, while multilingual and culturally responsive design is essential to ensure equitable access for all users.

This international event will explore the evolving role of libraries in an environment increasingly shaped by immersive technologies such as VR, AR, and digital holography alongside (AI and multilingual technologies. The symposium will provide a platform for knowledge exchange, hands-on engagement, and regional and global collaboration. The University of Macau offers an ideal setting for this event, with state-of-the-art facilities, strong research capacity in digital innovation and language technologies, and a library well equipped to host immersive and interactive sessions.

Key Program Areas

The symposium program will include keynote addresses, panel discussions, workshops, roundtables, and live demonstrations organised around the following themes:

  • Immersive Technologies for Library Engagement
    Immersive learning spaces, virtual exhibitions, and digital heritage initiatives
  • AI for Discovery and Access
    Intelligent search, recommender systems, automation, and ethical considerations
  • Multilingualism and Inclusive Design
    Machine translation, natural language processing, and cross-cultural user experience
  • Accessibility in the Era of Emerging Technologies
    Ensuring equitable access for users with disabilities and underserved communities
  • Collaborative Futures
    Regional and international partnerships across libraries, archives, museums, and the GLAM sector

Registration

Participants are invited to register via the University of Macau registration portal:

👉 https://umtec.um.edu.mo/libraryhome/libraryregistration/

👉In-person participation: USD $80

Programme details:
👉 https://umtec.um.edu.mo/libraryhome/libraryprogramme/

Travel and Hotels

👉 https://umtec.um.edu.mo/libraryhome/librarytravel/