Busan: discover a city where mountains meet the sea and historic neighborhoods stand beside modern skylines!

Beyond the Congress sessions, satellite meetings, and exciting nightlife, IFLA WLIC 2026 delegates can explore Busan’s dramatic landscapes, coastal landmarks, and vibrant local cuisine.

Hillside Neighborhoods

Unlike many coastal cities, Busan stretches across steep hillsides, where neighborhoods open onto wide views of harbors, bridges, and the sea.
Gamcheon Culture Village, often called the Machu Picchu of Korea, is known for its colorful houses, narrow alleys, and hillside murals. Nearby, Huinnyeoul Culture Village runs along the edge of a coastal cliff, where quiet streets overlook the ocean. Breathtaking!

For a sweeping panorama of the city, visitors can head to the Hwangnyeongsan Viewing Lounge, where Busan’s landscape of mountains, bridges, and coastline is especially striking in the evening.

Coastal Landmarks

The sea has long shaped Busan’s identity, and its coastline provides many ways to explore the city.

Glass skywalks at Oryukdo Skywalk, Songdo Skywalk, and Cheongsapo Daritdol Skywalk extend above the water to provide dramatic coastal views.

Further north in Gijang, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple stands on seaside rocks and is one of Korea’s few temples built directly beside the ocean.

Near BEXCO, Haeundae Beach is one of Busan’s most famous beaches.  Visitors can follow the coast on the Haeundae Blueline Park beach train or Sky Capsule, while BUSAN X the SKY offers scenic views of Busan’s skyline.

On Saturday evenings, the Gwangalli Marvelous Drone Light Show illuminates the sky above Gwangan Bridge, one of Busan’s most recognizable landmarks.

Local Flavors

Regional cuisine is another way to experience Busan.

Milmyeon, cold wheat noodles served in chilled broth, was created by refugees after the Korean War. Dwaeji Gukbap, a pork and rice soup, also became a local staple during that period.

Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, once known for surplus U.S. military goods, is now famous for its street food. Visitors often try Ssiat Hotteok, sweet pancakes filled with seeds and nuts, and skewers of Eomuk, Korean fish cakes.

Seafood is another essential part of Busan’s food culture, and visitors can enjoy it at Jagalchi Market, where dishes such as Hwe, fresh sliced raw fish, Jogae Gui, grilled shellfish, and Nakji Bokkeum, spicy stir-fried octopus, are local favorites.

During WLIC 2026, Busan invites participants to explore a city where landscapes, culture, and food come together on Korea’s southern coast.

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Call for Papers: WLIC 2026 Joint Satellite Meeting at Yonsei University

  

Theme: “Transforming Heritage in the Age of AI: Libraries Bridging Traditional, Digital, and Community Memory “

 

The Local History and Genealogy Section, Library Services to Multicultural Populations Section, and Preservation and Conservation Section of IFLA is accepting submissions for the satellite meeting at Yonsei University’s Research Institute for Academic Library Development in Seoul, South Korea, on 7-8 August 2026.

“Transforming Heritage in the Age of AI: Libraries Bridging Traditional, Digital, and Community Memory” will explore best practices and how libraries can partner with local community groups to document and celebrate indigenous culture and advocate for the long-term availability to all documentary heritage collections, physical and digital.

The meeting will provide best practices for expanding collections to include underrepresented voices, creating inclusive programming, advocating the long-term availability to all documentary heritage collections and utilizing new technologies to assist patrons with family history research. Topics will include strategies for the long-term preservation methods of cultural documents, preserving multicultural histories, using digital tools for genealogical research, engaging communities in history projects, and addressing challenges in representing diverse genealogies. Ethical considerations in genealogical research and collaboration with local cultural groups will also be discussed.

 

Possible Topics:

• how libraries can partner and collaborate with local cultural groups
• how libraries can ensure the long-term and stable preservation of valuable cultural documents
• documenting culture and heritage
• documenting and reimagining cultural heritage through AI
• celebrating diverse culture and heritage
• AI-enabled partnerships for community heritage preservation
• best practices for expanding collections to include underrepresented voices
• creating inclusive programming
• utilizing new technologies to assist patrons with family history research
• AI-supported genealogical and family history research
• strategies for preserving multicultural histories
• using digital tools for genealogical research
• engaging communities in history projects
• challenges in representing diverse genealogies
• ethical considerations in genealogical research
• ethical and responsible AI in community memory projects
• celebrating multiculturalism through library-supported genealogical projects
• celebrating multiculturalism through digital and hybrid programming
• libraries as pillars of multicultural community building
• enhancing multicultural literacy
• transforming multicultural literacy in the AI era

 

Dates and location

7-8 August 2026, 6^th floor, Widang Hall, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei Road, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Korea Zip code: 03722

Website: http://thelibrary.yonsei.ac.kr/

 

Abstract submission

We are accepting presentation proposals as 15-minute talks and 8-minute lightning talks. All talks must be presented in English and include the following information:

• title of the presentation
• presentation abstract (300 words maximum)
• presenters’ name(s), professional affiliation, country, email address, and a brief biographical note

 

Submit your proposal

 

Timeline

All proposals must be submitted by 27 April 2026.  *(Early registration available until 14 May 2026 for WLIC 2026) Proposals will be evaluated by the satellite program committee group and successful applicants will be informed by 5 May 2026.

 

Please note

All expenses, such as travel and accommodation, are the responsibility of the authors/presenters. Speakers are not paid for their participation in the satellite meeting. Letters of invitation can be issued to presenters upon request.

 

Organisers

This IFLA WLIC 2026 satellite meeting is organized by IFLA Local History and Genealogy Section, Library Services to Multicultural Populations Section, and Preservation and Conservation Section. The host is Yonsei University’s Research Institute for Academic Library Development.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Brannock.

 

The IFLA Information Literacy Section (ILS) announces its call for proposals for presentations at its Satellite Meeting at the IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) in Busan, South Korea, August 8th, 2026. 

Location: Busan Metropolitan Library

Theme: Information Literacy in a Disrupted Information Ecosystem: AI, Misinformation, and Trust

Session Focus:

Generative AI, algorithmic systems, and the spread of misinformation are reshaping how information is created, distributed, and trusted. These developments pose new challenges for evaluating credibility and understanding authority in today’s information ecosystem. This session explores how information literacy initiatives are adapting to these changes. We welcome contributions that examine how libraries respond to AI-generated content, algorithmic mediation, and the evolving nature of information trust, including approaches that help users better understand how AI systems shape the information they encounter.

 

Possible sub-themes may include, but are not limited to:

• Information literacy responses to generative AI and misinformation
• Teaching users to evaluate AI-generated or algorithmically mediated information
• Deepfakes, recommendation systems, and post-truth environments
• Algorithmic bias, transparency, and explainable AI
• Integrating AI literacy into information literacy programs
• Pedagogical approaches for teaching responsible and ethical use of AI tools
• The role of libraries in strengthening trust in digital information environments

 

Types of contributions:

We invite submissions in the form of research papers, case studies, best practices, and conceptual papers.

 

Proposals must be in English and submitted in an electronic format and must include the following information:

• Title of the proposed presentation
• Specify the sub-theme the abstract addresses
• Abstract of the proposed paper (no more than 500 words)
• Name(s) of presenters and positions and/or titles
• Employer or affiliated institution/association
• Contact information including email address
• Short biographical statement of no more than 100 words
• A statement of agreement (see below)

___I understand if my presentation is accepted I, myself, or at least one presenter from my group, if more than one author is included in the proposal, will be expected to make this presentation by attending the WLIC Satellite Meeting in Busan, South Korea and will assume all financial responsibilities to do so. 

 

Submit proposal abstracts (500 words or less) by April 24th, 2026 (submitter’s local time) to https://forms.gle/CHrMwuPJi3t5qqt26. 

Emailed proposals will NOT be accepted.

 

Important dates:

• April 24th, 2026 – Deadline for submissions of Proposal Abstracts
• May 15th, 2026 – Presenters will be notified. All submissions will be acknowledged upon receipt and notification of the decision.
• June 15th, 2026 – Deadline for submission of presentation slides (in English) and full papers (in any IFLA language)

 

Please note:

• At least one of the paper’s authors must be present to deliver a summary of the paper during the Satellite Meeting in Busan, South Korea. Abstracts should only be submitted with the understanding that the expenses of attending the conference will be the responsibility of the author(s)/presenter(s) of accepted papers.
• The paper must be an original submission NOT presented or published elsewhere.
• All papers that are presented at the WLIC 2026 will be made available online via the IFLA Repositoryunder the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.
• Authors of accepted papers must complete the IFLA Authors’ Permission Form.
• All expenses for attending the IFLA conference, travel, accommodation, etc., are the responsibility of the authors/presenters. No financial support can be provided by IFLA, but a letter of invitation/visa requirementscan be issued to the author(s)/presenter(s) of accepted papers.
• A number of grants and awards are available every year for supporting delegates to attend the IFLA World Library and Information Congress. Visit the IFLA WLIC 2026 website for more information.

 

Questions should be submitted to:

Valérie Glass | valerie.glass@yahoo.fr

IFLA Information Literacy Section’s Chair | Chair of the ILS Satellite Meeting Team

Theme: „Protecting Knowledge in Times of Crisis: Disaster Planning for a Transforming Information Landscape„

 

Introduction

The IFLA Preservation  & Conservation  Section (PRESCON) and Advisory Committee on Cultural Heritage (CCH) are seeking proposals for papers to be presented at a session to be held at the IFLA World Library and Information Congress in Busan, South Korea, 10-13 August 2026.

As the global information landscape grows increasingly complex, libraries face evolving challenges in safeguarding knowledge during times of crisis. Disaster planning—once centered primarily on protecting physical collections—now encompasses digital integrity, data security, intellectual freedom, and the preservation of diverse cultural and Indigenous knowledge. This session examines how libraries can anticipate, respond to, and shape the future of information resilience in an era defined by rapid technological change, climate instability, and shifting user expectations.

Through case studies, research, and practical reports, the session will explore how disaster preparedness intersects with open knowledge, privacy, digital preservation, and the ethical use of emerging technologies such as generative AI. It will highlight strategies that strengthen the trustworthiness, accessibility, and continuity of information as a public good, even under the pressures of disruption.

 

Suggested Topics (papers should reflect the conference theme, “Libraries Powering Transformation”

• AI
• Security
• Ethical use of information and emerging technologies

 

Important dates and deadlines

• Friday, 1 May 2026: Deadline for submission of proposals/abstracts
• Friday, 22 May 2026: Notification to authors about the status of a submission
• Friday, 22 June 2026: Submission of the full text of the paper
• Monday,13 July 2026: Submission of accompanying PowerPoint slides for presentation 

 

Submission Guidelines

Proposals should include:

• Title of proposed presentation
• Abstract of proposed paper (no more than 300 words)
• Name of presenter plus position and/or title
• Employer / affiliated institution
• Contact information including email address, telephone number
• Short biographical statement of presenter

 

Submit the proposal via email to: Beth Kilmarx director@bostonmedicallibrary.org

Use the subject line:  PRESCONS WLIC PROPOSAL

 

Please note:

• At least one of the paper’s authors must be present to summarize the paper during the program in Busan. Abstracts are to be submitted only with the understanding that the

• Expenses of attending the conference will be the responsibility of the author(s)/presenter(s) of accepted papers.
• All papers must use the WLIC Paper template, which will be provided when your paper is accepted

• The language of the session is expected to be English.
• All papers presented at the WLIC 2025 will be available online under the Creative  Commons Attribution 4.0 International license.
• All papers must be unpublished and not previously presented.
• Authors must disclose whether they submit this proposal to another WLIC 2026 session.
• Authors of accepted papers must complete the IFLA Authors’ Permission Form.
• Authors and presenters must adhere to the Presenter guidelines provided when your paper is accepted

• All expenses, including registration for the conference, travel, accommodations, etc., are the responsibility of the authors/presenters. IFLA does not provide any financial support.

 

Congress Participation Grants

A list of opportunities for support is available on the Grants and Awards page of the WLIC website.

Planning to attend the World Library and Information Congress in Busan this August? Satellite Meetings offer a great opportunity to go deep on cutting-edge topics, so make note of the meeting list for all your event planning! ✍️

Each year, a number of IFLA’s Volunteer Committees (Sections, Special Interest Groups, Review Groups, Advisory Committees and Regional Divisions) organise unique, 1-2 day Satellite Meetings prior to or following the Congress. The meetings offer a great opportunity to gain and exchange expertise with fellow professionals from around the globe.

For WLIC 2026, these meetings will all be held in Busan and Seoul.

Learn more about each of the meetings, their topics, and attendance information by visiting our Satellite Meetings page.

Call for Presentations for IFLA WLIC 2026 satellite conference

Satellite Meeting: Practical Implementations of artificial intelligence in Public Libraries

Submission deadline: April 10^th 13.00 CET
Conference date: August 14^th 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.

Keynote: Overdrive CEO, Steve Potash, will deliver a keynote on AI implementation in the readers advisory capacity within the Libby Library application

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. See also italicized note under submission guidelines.

• 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: ifla2026@db.dk before April 10^th 13.00 CET

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

Important Dates:

• Abstract submission deadline: April 10^th00 CET
• Notification of acceptance: May 1^st00 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.

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

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 mc@db.dk

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

 

Save the Date – Satellite Conference: Friday 14^th August, 2026, Seoul, South Korea

Practical Implementations of Artificial Intelligence in Public Libraries

The IFLA Public Libraries Section, together with the IFLA Information Technology and IFLA Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group, invites you to save the date for a satellite conference dedicated to the practical implementations of artificial intelligence in public libraries.

Held in conjunction with IFLA World Library Information Congress 2026 – “Libraries Powering Transformation’ in Busan, Korea (10-13 August 2026), this event will bring together library staff, technologists, and innovators to share real-world experiences and future-focused ideas on AI in public library contexts.

EVENT DETAILS

• Practical Implementations of Artificial Intelligence in Public Libraries
• DATE: Friday, 14 August 2026
• VENUE: Seoul City Hall
• HOSTED by: Seoul Metropolitan Libraries
• ORGANISERS:
  • IFLA Public Library Section
  • IFLA Information Technology Section
  • IFLA Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group

Please mark this date in your calendar when planning to attend the IFLA WLIC 2026 in Busan, or if you are interested in AI and its impact on public library practice in the region.

SATELLITE FOCUS

This satellite will explore how artificial intelligence- including both generative AI and non-generative AI – is being used in public libraries today and how it could shape our services tomorrow. The program will highlight case studies, tools, policies, and evaluation approaches that help library staff understand what AI can do in practice – beyond the hype.

CALL FOR PAPERS TO FOLLOW

A formal call for papers and presentations will follow and we encourage all librarians to start thinking about proposals in the following areas (and beyond)

• AI tolls used in physical library spaces for information dissemination and wayfinding
• Using AI to create exhibitions, design spaces, and support participatory design
• Reading guides, recommendations, and literature promotion supported by AI
• Virtual librarians or chatbots in digital library environments
• AI applications for library management, workflows, and patron services
• Innovative AI solutions for enhancing access, inclusion or user experience
• AI literacy programs for communities, including ethical and critical perspectives

 

WHO SHOULD “SAVE THE DATE”?

This satellite conference will be of particular interest to:

• Public Library Managers and front-line staff
• Library technologists and systems librarians
• Library Policy makers and strategic planners
• Vendors, developers, and partners working with AI in libraries
• Researchers and educators in LIS and related fields

If you are exploring AI in your library – or planning to – this event is designed for you.

Registration information and a program outline will be shared shortly.

For now please:

• Save the date: Friday 14^th August 2026
• Plan your travel: Combine your trip to IFLA WLIC 2026 in Busan with this satellite conference in Seoul

We look forward to welcoming you to Seoul for a day of inspiration, practical insights, and fruitful discussions on the future of AI in public libraries.

 

Call for Proposals

Satellite Meeting: Transforming Social Connections through Libraries

Friday, 7 August 2026

 

Hosted by: Seoul Metropolitan Library, 110, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea, in partnership with the following IFLA Sections:

• Statistics and Evaluation
• Metropolitan Libraries
• Library Design

 

Ahead of IFLA’s World Library & Information Congress (WLIC) 2026 in Busan, Republic of Korea, a one-day satellite is planned in Seoul.

The Satellite will offer a stimulating program and creative format, including keynotes, panels, ignite talks and learning circles. Our host will deliver a policy case presentation on the Seoul Outdoor Library. They will also organize a social event: Reading Party with Bookbogo (a group reading session with light refreshments). 

Potential delegates are invited to submit a proposal for a 5-minute Ignite Talk or 4-minute Learning Circle Talk.

Some suggested topics to get you started:

• How do libraries foster and transform social connections through programming, space, and services?
• Designing library spaces, services and/or programmes
• Assessing library spaces, services, and programmes
• Communicating the impact and value of libraries
• Meeting today’s needs and preparing for the technological future
• Challenges and opportunities in transforming social connections
• Future-proofing our workforce – what will be the “right” workforce for the future, and what types of leaders are required?

 

Ignite Talks

There are several formats for these Ignite Talks sessions; you can think of them as TED Talks or Pecha Kucha sessions. We don’t want to limit the speakers at our meeting to any of these formats, although you are welcome to use them; the only restriction is the time limit, after which you hand over the microphone!

Based on the submissions, we will select and schedule sessions comprising 3-4 presentations. Once all the presentations are complete, the moderator will lead a 15-minute Question-and-Answer session. We hope to host two rounds of Ignite Talks.

Learning Circle

The goal of the learning circle is to provide participants with an opportunity to learn quickly from multiple libraries and facilitate peer learning and support among the participants. The speakers have an opportunity to draw on the group’s collective wisdom to advance their key projects. All six speakers have four minutes. As a speaker, you prepare a presentation with up to 5 slides, including your title slide. The presentations follow a fixed format: where are you from, what are you working on and why, what have you learned, and where do you need help. All participants receive a worksheet with the speakers‘ names and projects, followed by three dots: „I am working on something similar,“ „I want to learn more,“ and „I have ideas to share.“ The presentations are held one after another with a minute in between for participants to take notes. After the presentations, speakers are assigned to tables where participants can learn more about their work and share ideas on how to move their project forward.

Given the location, we are eager to receive proposals from speakers who can showcase innovation in the Asian region.  We also seek to profile presentations that demonstrate IFLA’s rich regional diversity.

 

So, come along and share your news, ideas and learning. The more variety, the more interesting it becomes!

 

How to prepare for a SHORT AND SHARP presentation:

https://speakingaboutpresenting.com/presentation-skills/pecha-kucha-presentation/

http://purplepresentations.com/2013/03/how-to-prepare-an-ignite-presentation/

Also, check out these pages to be inspired:

Rob Biesenbach –How to deliver a successful Ignite talk in 10 steps

Scott Berkun – How to Give a Great Ignite Talk

Caroline Forsey – How to create an engaging 5-minute presentation

Jason Grigsby – How to Give a Successful Ignite Presentation

We plan to provide simultaneous interpretation via an app.  Participants will need to provide their own device to obtain translation.

A small fee of approximately 20 Euros will be charged at the time of registration. That will cover the costs of lunch that will be provided to the participants during the meeting.

 

We look forward to receiving your proposal.

 

How to submit a proposal?

Use this online proposal form. 

Deadline for submission is midnight April 24^th

We will respond to all submissions by the end of the day on April 30^th.

Questions: Contact Christine.Brown@ualberta.ca

Attendees of IFLA WLIC 2026 will find themselves at the heart of one of Asia’s most dynamic cultural hubs.

While gathering to discuss librarianship and the future of knowledge, delegates will be immersed in the global rise of Korean culture—an influential movement shaping music, film, literature, and digital media worldwide.

As you prepare for your Congress journey, let’s explore the K-culture experiences awaiting delegates alongside attending WLIC 2026 in Busan!

K-pop: a sound that resonates across the world

K-pop is one of the defining sounds of contemporary culture. What began as a regional music industry has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, propelled by PSY’s ‘Gangnam Style’ and expanded by globally influential groups like BTS.

For WLIC 2026 delegates, this global wave holds special local significance. Busan is the hometown of BTS members Jimin and Jungkook—a source of pride for the city and a reminder that global icons often emerge from strong local roots. Their journey from Busan to international stages mirrors Korea’s growing cultural influence worldwide.

Busan also actively shapes today’s K-pop scene. The city hosts the Busan One Asia Festival (BOF), one of Asia’s major K-pop events, bringing together leading artists and international fans from around the world each year. During the festival, the entire city comes alive with music and international visitors.

K-pop’s reach now extends across media. ‘Golden’ from the animated film KPop Demon Hunters illustrates how Korean pop culture flows between music, film, and digital platforms. In Busan, K-pop is not a distant trend but a vibrant part of the city’s cultural identity.

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K-drama and film beyond the language barrier

Korean dramas and films have become powerful storytellers on the international stage. Through streaming platforms, local narratives now reach audiences across borders.

Busan is a vibrant hub of film culture and creativity. As a UNESCO Creative City of Film and home to the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), Asia’s most influential film festival, the city has long been a gateway to the world for Korean cinema. Each year, filmmakers and audiences gather in Busan, transforming the city into a dynamic space for storytelling and exchange.

Global successes such as Squid Game and Bong Joon-Ho’s Parasite demonstrate the international reach of Korean screen culture. Beyond these successes, Busan’s global presence is continually strengthened by its festivals, film markets, and cultural institutions. Cinema here is not only screened — it is actively nurtured and celebrated.

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Esports and the new digital reading room

Media culture has shifted from passive consumption to active, real-time participation. In Esports, Korea has been a pioneering force, shaping competitive gaming into a major global industry. One of its most iconic figures is Faker (Lee Sang-hyeok), widely regarded as the greatest League of Legends player of all time, whose career symbolises Korea’s leadership in digital competition.

Busan has hosted major international tournaments, and BEXCO—the venue for WLIC 2026—welcomed the League of Legends World Championship in 2022. These events demonstrate the city’s growing importance in global esports.

Streaming platforms transform these competitions into shared global experiences, connecting millions in real time.

K-Culture is no longer a passing trend. It is a dynamic digital wave that brings Busan and Korea closer to the global community.

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