CILIP Rewired Conference 2024 Reflection #2
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:
On November 1st, 2024, I attended the CILIP Rewired Conference at CodeNode, an inspiring event that explored the latest trends in digital transformation for libraries, information, and knowledge sectors. The day started with a warm welcome from CILIP CEO Louis Coiffait-Gunn, setting an energetic tone and outlining the conference’s focus on technology’s role in access to information.
The Keynote speech by Emma Thwaites of the Open Data Institute was a thought-provoking highlight, about the future of public data in Labour’s plan for a National Data Library (NDL), as mentioned in their Invest 2035 green paper. Emma posed questions on infrastructure, how data will drive meaningful change within our industries, how and if autonomy will be given to individuals over the use of their data, and importantly for us as information professionals, how we fit into all of this. Employees across sectors are lacking in data skills as investment in software isn’t being matched in training, and yet this is essential. Shockingly, two-thirds of employees lack even basic Excel skills, and this data skills gap must be addressed for the NDL to be a success.
One of the standout sessions, The digital divide, led by Dr Emma Stone of the Good Things Foundation, showed that many in our society face challenges in accessing digital services. In fact, 4 in 10 households with children do not meet the overall minimum digital standards (A Minimum Digital Living Standard for Households with Children). This is something to be aware of when we think about how we deliver services to patrons and stakeholders, as well as the needs and abilities of our own staff. The talk and discussions reinforced how crucial equitable access is, especially in an increasingly digital world.
Finally, I attended two sessions on AI, both eye-opening in distinct ways. AI use cases across the sector demonstrated the potential of AI applications in making day-to-day administrative tasks much quicker (one presentation was even entirely AI generated), and also highlighted the need, particularly relevant in the NHS, for librarians to collaborate with IT and information governance colleagues to set out AI policies as soon as possible to create safe and legal working practices. In The AI regulatory landscape legal and research consultant Dr Mathilde Pavis gave us a whistlestop tour of legal issues to be aware of in the use of AI, including how training data can cause discrimination and inaccuracy in generative AI. She suggests that for certain uses (such as health) closed AI built on trusted data is a safer use of the technology, which of course is a growing concern for anyone wanting to use AI in healthcare.
Overall, the CILIP Rewired Conference offered valuable insights into how we can harness digital tools responsibly. It was a reminder of the powerful role libraries and information professionals play in guiding communities through the digital age.
Many thanks to NHSE for the opportunity to attend this event.