Aligarh, The Department of Library and Information Science, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), inaugurated the International Conference on Emerging Trends in Libraries (INTELLIB 2026) at the Auditorium of University Polytechnic (Boys). The two-day conference, scheduled from March 27 to 28, brought together eminent scholars, professionals, and policymakers from across the globe to deliberate on the evolving landscape of library and information science.
In the inaugural session, Prof. M. Masoom Raza, Conference Convener, highlighted the growing significance of libraries in an AI-driven era and the need for continuous learning and the development of new competencies among information professionals to effectively respond to technological transformations.
Prof. Preeti Mahajan, Conference Director from Panjab University, highlighted the importance of efficient information delivery systems and described the conference as a global platform promoting dialogue, collaboration, and critical engagement on emerging trends in the discipline.
Ms. Sam Helmick, President of the American Library Association, addressed the gathering through a video message, while Prof. Ikram Hussain, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, AMU, reflected on the rapidly evolving nature of library services in contemporary times.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Guest, Dr Ashok Kumar Mishra of the Indian Institute of Insolvency Professionals of ICAI, Noida, spoke on the transformative role of libraries in the digital age. He observed that modern libraries are becoming user-centric, interactive spaces that encourage collaboration, creativity, and knowledge exchange, extending their relevance beyond traditional academic boundaries.
In her Presidential Address, the Vice-Chancellor of AMU, Prof. Naima Khatoon, highlighted the stature of the Maulana Azad Library as one of Asia’s finest repositories of knowledge. She noted that libraries are undergoing a paradigm shift, evolving into dynamic, technology-enabled hubs driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, and cloud computing.
The conference received around 120 research paper submissions, out of which 63 were selected for presentation and publication following a rigorous review process.
The inaugural session concluded with the release of the conference proceedings and a felicitation ceremony honouring the dignitaries. The vote of thanks was proposed by the University Librarian Prof. Nishat Fatima.
Source : Aligarh Muslim University News