NEXT LIBRARY 2025

Ignite Talk This presentation highlights the contributions of Ukrainian libraries in fostering an inclusive society during the Russian-Ukrainian war. It showcases best practices that promote equality and inclusivity, drawing from the innovative efforts of libraries across Ukraine. One notable example is the project “Digital Skills for People with Vision Disabilities,” which is part of The […]

Ignite Talk In an era of polarization, libraries are stepping up to foster understanding, dialogue, and empathy. Starting Fall 2025, libraries in Albertslund, Roskilde, and Aarhus are partnering with the Human Library Organization® to offer a unique opportunity to borrow human books: real people with diverse, often marginalized experiences that volunteer to share their story

Ignite Talk Inspiration from the SDGs and Next Library 2017 were incorporated into the design and amenities of the Clinton-Macomb Public Library’s North Branch which opened in 2021. Learn about such features as geothermal heating and cooling, outdoor musical instruments, trees reclaimed from the construction site, “Stonehenge” story circle, watershed education panels, floor display boxes

Ignite Talk A plurilingual, multi-cultural group of teens run our library’s Creative Minds Community Festival of Arts and Culture, whose impact ripples joy across an area marred by anti-immigration sentiment. This project breaks down barriers, builds a sense of belonging, develops literacy, numeracy, social, emotional and cultural skills, and fights for diversity, equality and inclusion

Ignite Talk Throughout the ages, countless books have been banned for a variety of reasons. Some began as bestsellers only to end up in courtrooms or on the burning pile. In Banned Books, Marjoleine tells twenty-four fascinating short stories behind books that were once banned – or still are in some parts of the world

Ignite Talk The project Libraries as Think Tanks enables public libraries in southern Sweden to explore new ways to promote democracy in their communities. Through local initiatives, many libraries have tested methods to strengthen freedom of speech, civic dialogue, and digital literacy, particularly for minority groups. The project provides tools and strategies to enhance libraries’

Ignite Talk This Ignite Talk presents a unique quiz game designed by the elderly community, guided by librarians who dare to think outside the box. The process was designed with the following innovative outcomes: engaging the elderly to make them feel empowered and connected to their community; fostering the social interaction through the sharing of

Ignite Talk The Ignite Talk will explore why involving children in literary awards (like the Danish “Orlaprisen”) can transform how they engage with books. We’ll inspire librarians with practical ways to include children in decision-making around reading initiatives. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of why children’s perspectives are key to fostering a love

Ignite Talk Outside our library there is a community fridge, known as the Freedge (free fridge, get it?). The freedge is a sharing mechanism aiming to reduce food waste where everyone can take and leave food. The project started with an old refrigerator donated by a library patron but has since developed into a successful

Ignite Talk It’s time for children and young people to be heard. The Youth Engagement Network develops local alliances and collaborations with young teenagers who don’t currently use their library.  Explore practical examples to help you shift power through co-creation while developing new skills for local young people and library workers. Hear what we’ve learned, including