IATUL 2024: Reflections on the First Day of the Conference

Kia Ora!

From the outset, IATUL 2024 distinguished itself with a warm, inclusive, and culturally rich welcome. Thoughtful gestures, such as the heartfelt "thank yous" after each session and the blessings over food and drink, created a profound sense of mindfulness and community. The inclusion of reflection time within the program was particularly impactful, allowing us to pause, absorb the wealth of shared insights, and engage with speakers to explore ideas further.

The conference was officially opened by Adrienne Cleland , Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Operations) and Registrar at the University of Auckland. Her remarks underscored the critical role libraries play in transforming higher education, especially amidst global uncertainties impacting universities. She eloquently touched on themes of social license, the balance between free speech and regulation, and the opportunities to reimagine library spaces.

Conference Theme: Ngā Reo o te Katoa – The Voices of All

This year's theme deeply resonated with my personal philosophy and cultural ethos. It evoked the Sanskrit phrase Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning "the whole world is one family." This ancient concept reflects the interconnectedness of all beings, emphasising unity, respect, and inclusion—a sentiment echoed in every session.

Jill Benn 's session on university transformation was a standout, offering a practical framework for building resilience amidst the complexities of professional life. She highlighted:

• Mindset: Embracing adaptability and a growth-oriented perspective.
• Skills: Developing competencies to meet evolving demands.
• Experience: Leveraging personal and professional growth opportunities.
• Relationships: Fostering meaningful connections that promote collaboration and support.

Jill also shared insights on career planning, referencing Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, which advocates for purposeful and dynamic career paths. Her emphasis on health, well-being, and balancing professional aspirations with personal fulfilment was both timely and inspiring.

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) stream delved into how libraries can actively foster inclusivity and belonging. Rangihurihia McDonald from the University of Waikato delivered a powerful session, Te Manawataki (The Beating Heart), emphasising the importance of anti-racism initiatives and cultural competency frameworks in building libraries that welcome diverse communities.

Kaye Sullivan from Monash University built on this with her session, Libraries for Belonging, showcasing how empowering library staff can champion inclusivity. Drawing from Simon Sinek's Find Your Why, she highlighted the value of purpose-driven engagement.

Tricia Bingham and Sandra Storz from the University of Auckland presented Te Waka Huia Kōrero, a professional development resource centred on Te Tiriti o Waitangi. This session encouraged libraries to strengthen partnerships and foster meaningful connections with Indigenous communities, underscoring the role of libraries as catalysts for equity and inclusion.

The "Space and Future Libraries" stream offered a fascinating look at how academic libraries are redefining their roles in response to an evolving higher education landscape. Andrew Harrison and Graeme Finlay from Warren & Mahoney shared insights from their recent Future of the Academic Library study project, stressing the importance of fostering innovation and supporting emerging pedagogies while prioritising student-centred design.

Similarly, Alex McManus from the University of Technology Sydney highlighted the need for libraries to adapt dynamically, creating collaborative and inclusive spaces that align with their mission as centres of learning and discovery.

Sian Woolcock from the University of Adelaide shared her experiences merging two university libraries. Her story demonstrated how focusing on shared values, open communication, and trust-building ensured the success of the integration, ultimately fostering a unified and innovative library service.

The day concluded with an inspiring keynote by Ry Moran , Associate University Librarian – Reconciliation at the University of Victoria, Canada. He spoke passionately about cultural heritage, reconciliation, and the role of libraries in preserving Indigenous knowledge. Moran’s reflections on the cultural genocide wrought by residential schools and the responsibility of institutions to foster healing and remembrance were deeply moving.

The first day of IATUL 2024 was a celebration of courage, transformation, and belonging. From resilience and innovation to cultural competency and reconciliation, every session reinforced libraries’ pivotal role in advancing knowledge, inclusion, and humanity.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the conference organisers, especially Sue Roberts , @kim Tairi, Michelle Blake and everyone involved in bringing this incredible event to life. Your dedication to creating an environment of learning, reflection, and connection has made an indelible impact. The voices of all indeed came alive today, and I look forward to the conversations and insights still to come.

Ngā mihi nui.