Library Leadership
Summit Theme: "Sustained Engagement and Innovation: Strengthening Libraries for the Future"
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8 September 2026
Cape Town, South Africa

1. Background and Rationale

University and public libraries are central to advancing teaching, research, innovation, and lifelong learning.

However, the landscape of higher education and public knowledge institutions is rapidly evolving, driven by technological disruption, shifting user expectations, and ongoing funding challenges.

In this dynamic environment, library leaders must collaborate, innovate, and advocate more strategically to ensure that libraries remain relevant, equitable, and sustainable.

The Summit aims to bridge the critical gap in regional director-level leadership platforms by convening senior library executives to co-create forward-looking strategies for the future of libraries in the digital age.

2. Objectives

  • Provide a dedicated forum for library executives to discuss emerging challenges and opportunities in library leadership and management.
  • Foster cross-institutional collaboration through shared resource platforms and co-developed projects.
  • Examine transformative trends such as AI, digital transformation, data ethics, and the evolving role of libraries in open science and open education.
  • Strengthen leadership, governance, and management competencies.
  • Position libraries as strategic partners in national innovation systems and sustainable development agendas.

3. Target Participants

  • University Librarians and Library Directors
  • Deputy Directors, Assistant and Associate Librarians
  • Vice-Chancellors, Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Academic/Research), and Rectors
  • Directors of Public Libraries and Knowledge Resource Centres
  • Representatives from Ministries of Education, Science, ICT, National Archives and Culture
  • Development Partners, Publishers, and Library Technology Vendors
Library Leadership Summit 2026

Key Sub-Themes

Sustained Engagement & Breaking Silos

Building enduring professional networks and leadership communities.

Promoting collaboration between university and public libraries for shared innovation.

Developing and implementing policies that strengthen library accountability, ethics, and impact.

Empowering librarians to effectively engage policymakers and demonstrate the value of libraries.

Designing multi-institutional funding proposals and strategic partnerships for sustainable library growth.

Leveraging affordable internet, open-source platforms, and solar-powered solutions for inclusive access.

Integrating ethical and practical AI tools in information services, research, and learning support.

Rethinking LIS curricula to align with emerging skills and technological demands.

Creating structured leadership pathways, mentoring, and accreditation for library executives.

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