The Statistics and Evaluation Section of IFLA is seeking presenters for our Satellite Meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan, August 14 & 15, 2025 to be held at the Maqsut Narikbayev University Library.

Title of the Satellite Meeting

Assessment at the Frontier

Program Description and Goals

The goals of the Satellite Meeting are to explore assessment and evaluation methodologies, theories, and practices on the forefront. The sessions of the Satellite Meeting will focus on the future of assessment and evaluation methods and practices in various Library settings that best meet the needs of the organization and its collections, spaces, programs, resources, etc. for decision-making and advocacy.

Themes of the Program

AI, Value & Impact, Capital & Renovations

Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Integrating Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in libraries offers significant potential for enhancing services, optimizing research, improving efficiency, and delivering personalized user experiences. To achieve this, libraries must develop comprehensive AI policies that promote ethical, effective, and secure implementation. As libraries adopt new AI tools for both patrons and staff, the demand for robust assessment strategies continues to increase. Ensuring these tools are evaluated effectively and in a timely manner is essential for maximizing their benefits and addressing potential risks.

Value & Impact –Many Libraries have collected descriptive statistics and other information relative to their outputs and the outcomes of services and programs as the main component of their assessment activities. As Libraries of all kinds make their case for support to their stakeholders, they are increasingly focused on assessing and communicating their impact and value. There are new methods and tools that successfully blend quantitative and qualitative analysis to demonstrate impact and value. Storytelling has increasingly been used to supplement quantitative information. Impact and Value measures are not only critical for advocacy but can be used to support strategic planning and in developing new user-centered programs and services.

Capital & Renovations – Assessing the impact of library capital builds and renovations requires a multifaceted approach that combines qualitative and quantitative methods. Effective assessment studies should include user insights, usage data, and community engagement metrics to demonstrate how new or improved spaces meet diverse needs. Incorporating pre and post-renovation comparisons can provide valuable insights into changes in user behaviour, satisfaction, and learning outcomes. By aligning assessment strategies with institutional goals and broader community benefits, libraries can effectively communicate their value and secure future support.

Proposal Submission Guidelines

Interested parties are invited to submit an abstract (maximum 600 words) using Word or a PDF in English for a proposed presentation or workshop around the themes described that includes goals for the presentation/workshop with outcomes for participants (what are the takeaways?). All library types encouraged. We are particularly interested in methodologies that are applicable in various settings as appropriate. Each presentation or workshop session will last approximately 50 minutes. Note that attendance of the Satellite Meeting will be capped at 50 persons including presenters, thus ensuring a dynamic and optimal meeting experience for presenters and attendees. There will be no registration costs associated for participants.

PowerPoints and slide decks will be published on the Statistic and Evaluation IFLA website following the Satellite Meeting with the authors’ permission. Papers associated with presentations may be considered for addition into the IFLA Repository

Please Note

All expenses, such as travel, and accommodation are the responsibility of the presenters. Letters of invitation can be issued to presenters upon request.

Proposals will be blind reviewed and evaluated based on:

  1. Alignment with the Satellite Meeting themes
  2. Adherence to the premise of the Satellite Meeting
  3. Goals for the presentation/workshop
  4. Relevance of learning outcomes for participants (what are the takeaways?)
  5. Potential value, impact, and sustainability of methods/methodologies
  6. Applicability to a wide and diverse library audience

All submissions must be in English and include the following:

  • the title of the proposal
  • format, i.e., presentation or workshop and number of presenters, if applicable
  • abstract and goals with outcomes (600 words)
  • presenter’s name(s)
  • brief biographical note (for inclusion on the meeting website, if selected)
  • position
  • employer
  • country
  • author/presenter’s email address
  • telephone number (primary contact, as applicable)

Please submit proposals to Bella Karr Gerlich, PhD, [email protected] by 15th of April 2025.

Proposals will be blind reviewed / evaluated by the Satellite Program Committee group and successful applicants will be informed by the 15th of May 2025.