IRRT (International Relations Round Table)

Dear Colleagues,

I would like to share an international library staff week opportunity from Istanbul, Turkey.

For the third time, Koç University Libraries are organizing the "International Library Staff" Week in Istanbul, between May 9-13, 2021.  This event brings together professional Library staff with varied backgrounds working in universities or other research orientated libraries with an interest in sharing ideas and networking with colleagues.  

The main theme of this year's International Library Study Week is "Constructing the Future". Library and Information Science is a key sector that contributes to the development of the forthcoming ideas and projects. Having an impact on the future requires multiple considerations on various subjects. Through this week, together we will investigate these considerations and analyze the following sub-themes, innovation, partnership, and sustainability. 

Innovation: In this sub-theme the discussions will concentrate on the innovations in the Library and Information Science sector. Librarians always follow the latest trends in the fields of education and technology. What is the latest trend that you follow as a librarian? How you think innovations will contribute to the libraries? What needs to be considered for the adaptability of libraries to the continuous innovations? 

Partnership: Another discussion will concentrate on partnership. Libraries are information hubs for many research fields and has many stakeholders. How could libraries build stronger cooperation with their stakeholders? In what ways libraries contribute more to connected learning? What should be considered for finding the right partners? 

Sustainability: The United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a framework of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a total of 169 targets spanning economic, environmental, and social development and libraries are key institutions to help achieve these goals! With this in mind, we believe it is essential to discuss about sustainability in libraries. What can libraries do to maintain the continuity of library services? How could libraries contribute to the sustainability of research projects? 

During this week, library staff and visitors will have the chance to engage into fruitful discussions and exchange of professional and personal experiences. They will broaden their perspective on issues related to Information Science, strengthen their skills, and hopefully plant the roots for future collaboration on joint projects. 

In addition, Istanbul is a unique place to visit, and Koç University stands strong in the international educational and research arena.  Don't miss the chance to be part of the experience! 

You can find more information in the related Libguide. 

To apply for the program, fill in the online application form. 

Find more about our past events in our Blog and Flicker. 

Should you require any additional information, do not hesitate to contact us at Intllibweek@ku.edu.tr.