About

Libraries and Information Institutions in the Digital Age (LIDA) is a biennial conference which will be held in Dubrovnik, Croatia, May 19-21, 2025. LIDA addresses the changing and challenging environment for libraries and information systems and services. LIDA is an international biennial conference that brings together researchers, educators, students, practitioners, and developers from around the world in a forum for personal exchanges, discussions, and learning, held in memorable environments. We welcome submission of papers, panels, workshops, and posters that address critical and theoretical examinations of the conference theme; report current research and evidence-based approaches; and address practitioner perspectives.

Globally, libraries and information institutions are encountering previously unimaginable challenges. Uncertainty grows, as we ponder the question “What’s next?” In the wake of COVID-19, amid a tempest of political dichotomy and social unrest, information institutions face staff shortages, budget cuts, and reorganizations. As Generative AI applications and related technological developments proliferate, we foresee that they are poised to revolutionize all aspects of our professional lives. Traditionally, libraries were stabilizing forces in providing authoritative information, however this role is undermined by AI, censorship attacks, and diminishing financial support.  Ubiquitous information, including social media and the 24/7 news cycle, impact information credibility. Many now regard social media and online outlets as their source for news and interpretation of current events.

Despite these disruptions, opportunities abound. Throughout the pandemic, librarians embraced rapid transformation, as traditionally in-person services and programs immediately morphed to online modes. This conference theme invites participants to reflect on these disruptions, opportunities, and innovations, and to consider strategies for weathering the storms of uncertainty, steering bravely into uncharted waters and plotting a course to brighter futures.