Busan: Around 3,500 library and information professionals, researchers, and representatives of related organisations from over 120 countries gathered in Busan to share a blueprint for future libraries. The '2026 Busan World Library and Information Congress (WLIC),' held at BEXCO for four days from August 10 to August 13, concluded with great success.

According to Emirates News Agency, the congress, under the theme 'Libraries Leading Change,' addressed core challenges faced by libraries, including knowledge infrastructure in the era of artificial intelligence (AI), information accessibility, and the preservation of cultural heritage. This event marked the first international gathering in the library sector held in Busan, and the first hosted in South Korea in 20 years since the 2006 Seoul congress.

During the congress, approximately 200 professional lectures and academic sessions took place at BEXCO, showcasing innovative cases from various countries. Notably, the national committee main session on August 12 focused on the role of libraries as public infrastructure in a generative AI environment and measures to ensure information reliability, under the theme 'From a Knowledge Repository to a Civilizational Refinery.'

The event also featured an unprecedented scale of exhibitions and presentations. A record-breaking 205 research papers were presented at the poster session, and 47 companies and institutions participated in the international exhibition, highlighting the latest technologies, including AI-based services and digital archiving.

Participants affirmed the vision for libraries to progress amid the rapid changes of digital transformation. Busan Metropolitan City, the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), and the American Library Association (ALA) signed a trilateral memorandum of understanding, establishing a foundation for ongoing exchange and cooperation within the global library community.