In 2019 in the context of its work on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations is focussing in particular on SDG 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions. This goal is core to the work of the IFLA Government Libraries Section.

This two-day conference considers how libraries serving legislatures and executives can use information partnerships and outreach to improve citizen engagement and government accountability.

Full programme details available to participants after registration and on request.

Day 1 morning session

  • Keynote addresses from a government Chief Analyst and Chief Scientific Adviser, followed by Donna Scheeder, IFLA Past President on Libraries & UN SDGs
  • Panel session chaired by Stephen Wyber, Policy & Advocacy Manager IFLA – questions

Day 1 afternoon session theme: Information for innovation in Governance

  • Evidence-based policy making in government
  • “Books matter” – a government Current Thinking Collection
  • Evidence-influenced policy and UN SDG 16 – the role of parliamentary library and research services – Iain Watt, Consultant, Information @ Work
  • Partnerships for citizen engagement
  • Panel session and participants’ discussion
  • Evening meal

Day 2 theme: Strong institutions working to support public engagement

  • Libraries & the power of social media / providing greater value through information – Nick Poole (Chief Executive UK Chartered Institute for Library & Information Professionals)
  • Social media as a tool for citizen engagement
  • No learning, no teaching allowed: opening a hidden collection
  • Building strong institutions (UN SDG 16) – gathering evidence for Parliamentary Select Committees
  • Panel session and participants’ discussion
  • IFLA & UN SDGs – Evidence-based policy making – Stephen Wyber (Manager Policy and Advocacy, IFLA)
  • Lessons learned on the role of libraries in supporting better governance – discussion and panel session
  • Concluding address
  • Optional library visits

How to Register

Registration is now open to policy makers and librarians working with or in government and parliamentary libraries. There is no registration fee, but participants must cover their travel and accommodation costs. Lunch will be complimentary on both days, but there will be a charge for the optional evening meal on Day 1.

Register now