Celebrating 100 Years of IFLA

IFLA’s Library History Special Interest Group invites contributions to an oral history project commemorating the IFLA centenary. This initiative seeks to document and preserve the rich variety of experiences and contributions that have shaped the global library and information community over the past years.

Project background

Since 2018, the Library History Special Interest Group (SIG) has been leading efforts to document the oral histories of individuals associated with IFLA’s rich history. This work, conducted in partnership with other IFLA’s professional units, forms part of a larger endeavor to explore the history of libraries and information services. Our goal is to use these narratives as a lens to understand both the past and future of IFLA, as it continues to evolve to guide the professional community to meet the needs of contemporary and future societies.

What We Are Seeking

This Call invites library and information science practitioners, educators, and historians to nominate individuals or contribute oral histories that showcase the diverse ways in which oral history is conducted in our communities.

We welcome oral histories and nominations that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:

Oral Histories of Library Educators

We invite contributions that provide insights into this ongoing project, including updates and perspectives on future directions.

  • What has been achieved so far in documenting the voices of library educators?
  • What gaps remain, and how can they be addressed?
  • Experiences of educators who have shaped library and information science curricula
  • Perspectives on the evolution of library education globally
  • Innovative approaches to professional development and training

Oral Histories of Librarians Worldwide

  • Stories from librarians across the globe that capture the diversity of experiences and practices in different cultural and professional contexts
  • Experiences of IFLA officers, committee members, and regional representatives
  • Accounts of significant IFLA initiatives and their impact

Regional and cultural perspectives

We welcome reflections on the practice of “doing” oral history, exploring innovative methods, and showcasing unique stories that highlight the richness of our profession.

  • Personalities leading library development in different geographical regions
  • Personalities highlighting different cultural approaches to information management and access
  • Leaders and pioneers driving local innovations and adaptations in library services

Your Contribution Matters

We invite you to contribute to this important endeavor, whether by nominating individuals, sharing completed oral histories, or proposing innovative approaches to recording and presenting these narratives. Together, we can create a vibrant tapestry of stories that not only honor IFLA’s legacy but also inspire the future of libraries worldwide.

How to Participate

Please send your proposals or nominations by 30 November 2025

Make a submission

Include a brief description of the oral history project, the individual(s) involved, and the potential significance of the contribution to the broader understanding of IFLA’s history and the evolution of libraries. More information can be asked to: [email protected].

Let’s celebrate 100 years of IFLA by bringing to light the voices that have shaped our field and continue to guide its future.

Anna Maria Tammaro
Chair, IFLA Library History SIG