USJ Library Showcases Multicultural and Digital Inclusion Practices at Three Library Conferences in 2025
USJ Library Showcases Multicultural and Digital Inclusion Practices at Three Library Conferences in 2025
29
Nov
29/11/2025
USJ Library actively participated in three major international academic library conferences in 2025: the IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) in Kazakhstan; the 45th Annual IATUL Conference in Shanghai; and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Library Alliance Annual Conference and Young Scholars Forum in Hong Kong.
This year, the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) Library participated in three major international academic library conferences namely the IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) held in Astana, Kazakhstan in 18 – 22 August; the 45th Annual IATUL Conference hosted by Shanghai Jiao Tong University from 2 – 6 November; and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Library Alliance Annual Conference and Young Scholars Forum hosted by The Chinese University of Hong Kong from 13 – 14 November.
Each conference centered on academic library innovation, cross-cultural collaboration, and social inclusion. At all three events, the USJ Library representative delivered a presentation titled “Bridging Cultures, Building Communities: The Role of Academic Libraries in Fostering Multicultural Engagement and Digital Inclusion,” sharing the Library’s pioneering practices in multicultural education and digital empowerment.
IFLA World Library and Information Congress – Astana, Kazakhstan
The 2025 IFLA WLIC, themed “Libraries: Binding Knowledge, Building the Future” highlighted global collaboration and innovation in library development. At the Regional Development Section, the Deputy Librarian, Catartina Lei, shared Macau’s unique experience as a multicultural hub, demonstrating how academic libraries can integrate linguistic and cultural resources to enhance digital inclusion and ensure equitable information access for diverse communities. The report highlights the library’s role as a “cultural mediator” and its positive impact on fostering cultural inclusion and strengthening community engagement.
IATUL Annual Conference – Shanghai Jiao Tong University
The 45th IATUL Annual Conference, themed “Exploring the Future of Libraries: Connection, Innovation, and Impact,” spotlighted artificial intelligence, open science, and knowledge service transformation. At a thematic session, the Head Librarian, Emily Chan, elaborated on the “Bridging Cultures, Building Communities” topic, sharing how the Library collaborates with faculty’s research projects to develop digital learning resources and co-create localized cultural content, reinforcing the library’s role as both an academic and cultural innovator.
Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau University Library Alliance (GHMULA) Annual Conference and Young Scholars Forum – The Chinese University of Hong Kong
At the 2025 GHMULA Annual Conference and Young Scholars Forum, themed “The New Future of Academic Libraries: Integrative Innovation between Tradition and Modernity from a Cross-Cultural Perspective,” the USJ Library representative revisited to share with the librarians from Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau the perspectives of community engagement and educational equity.
Through examples such as multicultural reading programs, faculty–student collaborative cultural events, and community partnerships, the presentation illustrated the evolving role of the USJ Library as a cultural bridge that fosters mutual understanding, inclusivity, and social connection.
Global Engagement and Future
Through participation in these three library events, the University of Saint Joseph Library strengthened its global network and reinforced its leadership in multicultural integration and digital innovation. The Library remains committed to advancing as a platform for knowledge co-creation and cultural dialogue, seeking balance between technological advancement and humanistic values, Guided by the principles of openness, inclusiveness, and innovation, the USJ Library continues to support teaching, research, and community development.
Contact Information
University of Saint Joseph Library
Email: library@usj.edu.mo
Website: https://library.usj.edu.mo
