The IFLA New Professionals Special Interest Group (NPSIG) and Audiovisual and Multimedia Section (AVMS), assisted by the International Association of Music Libraries, Archives and Documentation Centres (IAML), invite interested professionals to submit proposals for the open session to be held during IFLA WLIC in Dublin, Ireland, from 15-22 August 2020.

Music in libraries

For many years, we have considered the ever-changing function of libraries. There has been a growing focus on libraries as a meeting point, as a space for creation and creativity, and as changing and dynamic spaces that strengthen and empower our societies.

If libraries aim to connect with society in these ways, we should consider the importance of music. Music is one of the most wonderful manifestations of human creativity, a reflection of our culture and history. We should show how music in all its forms is present in our daily activities, and ask ourselves, what space do we provide  – or prohibit – for music to exist inside our libraries?

Some of the issues include:

  • Access to information
  • New technologies the community,
  • Silence in libraries
  • The creation of collaborative networks
  • Creating inclusive space
  • Copyright

By exploring this relationship between music and libraries, we can change working conditions in the library world and make it relevant to our present-day needs.

What can we do in our libraries now practically? As librarians we are coming together, breaking down the silos and have all sections working as one. We should build a healthy environment and create rich, diverse space in our librarian world. Music has a special role to play. We need to make noise, to attract young people to libraries.

People can learn, read, research with music or without it. We can provide that to them. That is only one of the benefits of using music in libraries and creating vibrant art libraries. Music can inspire readers and ourselves.

Format

In line with the theme of the next World Library and Information Congress, “Inspire, Engage, Enable and Connect”, we are seeking for two formats of proposals:

Questions of interest can be:

  • Are there collaborations or best practice examples of how libraries and patrons / other partners work together on “Music in the Library”?
  • How is music used in the library / library world?
  • How do libraries include patrons/users to participate and in what ways?
  • Challenge the silence of libraries? Is music an enemy or an ally?
  • How can libraries have their own music and use music in everyday life in the workplace?
  • Impact of libraries on communities by using audio-visual promotion (social networks)
  • Building a library with a place for music. In what forms can music be available in a modern library?

The session will last for two hours, one hour will be dedicated to our excellent speakers, one hour will be dedicated to “Music in the Library” – with the contestants for the NPSIG Music Contest and the Award Ceremony!

CREATE MUSIC IN YOUR LIBRARY!

INSPIRE COMMUNITY WITH LIBRARY MUSIC!

Please find more details about this call for papers on the conference’s website.