Practical Implementations of Artificial Intelligence in Public Libraries

Date: August 14th 2026

Venue: Seoul City Hall with a reception at Seoul Metropolitan Library

Organisers: IFLA Public Libraries Section with IFLA IT section and IFLA AI SIG

Host: Seoul Metropolitan Library

In conjunction with the IFLA WLIC 2026 “Libraries Powering Transformation” held in
Busan, Korea, from August 10-13, 2026, the IFLA Public Libraries section is pleased to
announce a satellite conference focused on the practical implementations of
artificial intelligence in public libraries in collaboration with the IFLA IT section and
the IFLA AI Special Interest Group.

Conference Theme: The satellite conference will explore the use of artificial
intelligence (AI) in public libraries, including both generative AI and non-generative AI
applications. We invite presentations that showcase actual implementations of AI in
public libraries or propose innovative ideas that could be implemented in the future.

Topics of Interest: We welcome submissions on a wide range of topics related to AI
in public libraries, including – but not limited to – examples listed below.

• AI tools used in physical libraries for information dissemination
• Creating exhibitions and designing spaces with AI
• Reading guides and literature promotion using AI
• Virtual librarians or chatbots in digital libraries
• AI applications for library management and patron services
• Innovative AI solutions for enhancing library services
• AI literacy programs

Submission Guidelines: Interested participants are invited to submit an abstract of
their presentation. The abstract should be no more than 300 words and should clearly
outline the topic, the AI technology involved, and the practical implications for public
libraries.

Email to: [email protected] before April 10 13.00 CET

NB: Priority will be given to submissions describing actual implementations.

Important Dates:

• Abstract submission deadline: April 10th 13.00 CET
• Notification of acceptance: May 1st 13.00 CET

Organizers: This conference is organized by the IFLA Public Libraries Section in
collaboration with the IFLA IT section and the IFLA AI Special Interest Group.

Venue: Seoul City Hall 

Host: Seoul Metropolitan Library is graciously hosting the satellite conference reception.

Co-sponsor: We are grateful to OverDrive for their support as a co-sponsor of this
event as well as the generous co-operation of the Seoul Metropolitan Library.

Target Audience: This conference is designed for library professionals, researchers,
technologists, and anyone interested in the intersection of AI and public libraries.

Benefits of attending:

• Learn about the latest AI technologies and their applications in public libraries
• Network with professionals and experts in the field
• Share your experiences and insights with a global audience

Contact Information: For inquiries and abstract submissions, please contact:
Mikkel Christoffersen, deputy director of the Danish Library Association at [email protected]

We look forward to your contributions and to exploring the exciting possibilities of AI in
public libraries together!