2019 was the Independent Library Association’s thirtieth birthday! In this celebratory year the annual conference theme was one of adaptation: ‘the action or process of altering, amending, or modifying something (esp. something that has been created for a particular purpose) so that it is suitable for a new use’.
Any library is an adaptable space: we’ve embraced technology, changing reader demographics, the loss of original buildings, the addition of new buildings, ever-shifting collections, and much more. What is so intriguing about libraries is that continuity is as important as adaptation. All libraries treasure their original buildings and oldest books; their longevity is their USP. How do libraries change while also remaining the same? How do libraries emphasise the new while retaining the old?
The theme was ably embraced by a fantastic keynote speaker, Naomi Korn, one of the UK’s leading authorities on copyright, licensing and data protection.
This special ILA annual conference brought together those working in and around the independent library sector, fostering networking between all those who work in or around libraries, archives, and special collections. Papers from library founders, readers, members, subscribers, librarians, archivists, interns, volunteers, trustees, benefactors, partner institutions and the general public were all part of a wonderful weekend!
Download a PDF copy of the full 2019 programme here
Details of all talks and contributors can be found here
