NZ to host 2020 World Library and Information Congress

The International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) has announced that Auckland will host the World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) in August 2020.

Around 3000 library professionals will attend the congress, to be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre from 28 July to 5 August 2020. The Library and Information Association of New Zealand Aotearoa (LIANZA) estimates an economic benefit of over NZ$7 million (A$6.4m).

‘The world congress represents an extraordinary opportunity for LIANZA and New Zealand to showcase our innovative library and information sector, our bicultural approach and commitment to indigenous knowledge, and the valuable role libraries, librarians and information professionals have in our society,’ said LIANZA.

NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a video message that it was fantastic to hear the country’s bid had been successful, making it the first time in nearly 40 years that the congress will be held in the Pacific region.

‘Libraries, access to information, to education, [and] to creative spaces for adults and children is at the core of who we see ourselves as a country,’ said Ardern.

IFLA made the announcement at the closing ceremony of the 2018 congress in Kuala Lumpur last week.

Category: Library news