CILIP Rewired Conference 2024 Reflection #1
Digital transformation was the topic of discussion at CILIP Libraries Rewired 2024. Inevitably there was a big focus on application of AI but also consideration of issues such as the digital divide and using tech to streamline processes. This took place at CodeNode, London on 1 November 2024.
The next couple of posts share a collection of reflections and learning from colleagues who attended:
Firstly, I would like to convey my thanks to NHS England for providing me with a bursary to attend Rewired 2024. I was initially excited and apprehensive as this would be my first conference, and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I was excited at the opportunity to meet fellow colleagues and to learn more about the good work being undertaken and the digital changes taking place in libraries.
The keynote speech by Emma Thwaites was a fantastic way to start the conference and highlighted the changing digital landscape and the need for librarians and information professionals to be at the heart of this.
I also attended the session on ‘The Digital Divide’ which shocked me at just how much of a divide was present, but it was great to hear about the good work being undertaken by libraries to close this divide.
Following this I attended the ‘AI uses across the sector’ session and it was great to hear from Health Libraries about their uses of AI in supporting literature searches and pushing to be at the forefront of supporting the development of AI policies for their trusts.
Finally, it was great to speak to the variety of suppliers present on the different uses of technology and tools that can support libraries. It was also great to network with fellow NHS colleagues at the event and learn about their services and how they are using AI.
Overall, the day was a fantastic experience, with lots to take away and share with my team such as the applications of AI in health libraries in supporting literature searches as well as the need for us to be at the forefront of these developments to support our users.