For the second time in recent years, IFLA’s Management of Library Associations Section (MLAS) will collaborate with the Lebanese Library Association (LLA) to present its annual conference in 19-21 May, 2026 in Beirut. Building on the successful collaboration to co-present LLA’s 2024 annual conference, MLAS has joined other IFLA units and regional organizations to bring the 2026 conference to fruition. Below, we share general information about the event.

The Lebanese Library Association (LLA) 7th Conference In partnership with the United Nations’ Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and International Federation for Library Associations (IFLA/MENA) and (IFLA/MLAS) under the auspices of Lebanese Ministry of Culture

Theme:

Libraries at the Forefront: Leading Digital and AI-Driven Transformation in Education and Society
7th Conference

Dates: 19-21 May 2026
Location: United Nations ESCWA, Beirut- Lebanon

IFLA MLAS participation will be spearheaded by Dr. Imad Bachir, member of MLAS and former Chair of the IFLA MENA. Dr. Bachir will collaborate with MLAS Chair and LLA President and MLAS member from MENA, Dr. Marwa El Sahn.

As requested, MLAS will organize the session:

AI in Libraries and the Role of Library Associations

Description

Libraries are increasingly at the forefront of digital and AI-driven transformation in education and society, with library associations playing a critical leadership role in guiding this change. This one-hour global session brings together speakers from diverse regions to explore how library associations support and empower libraries to navigate rapid technological developments while remaining grounded in professional values.

Drawing on insights from the IFLA Trend Report and IFLA’s Future-proofing Libraries initiative, the session highlights how library associations foster shared foresight, build capacity, and promote collaborative action to help libraries respond effectively to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. As IFLA marks its 100th anniversary, the discussion reflects on a century of collective leadership by library associations and looks ahead to how they can continue to ensure that libraries remain resilient, relevant, and impactful in an increasingly digital and AI-influenced future.

 

Stay tunned for more information.