CILIP Rewired Conference 2024 Reflection #7

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: 

Libraries Rewired: reflections & learning

• Keynote speech: The day began with a compelling keynote from Emma Thwaites of the Open Data Institute, who set an inspiring tone for the event. Her insights into data governance and its implications for AI were particularly relevant to our work. It was also interesting to consider how the National Data Library may impact on our organisations and the data available to us. Emma highlighted – a quote attributed to Ben Goldacre – that after pilots and nurses, librarians are the third most trusted profession, a timely reminder of the responsibilities we have to our users in the era of rapid digital transformation.
• The Digital Divide Session: Dr Emma Stone from the Good Things Foundation led a session, highlighting the daily impact of digital inequities This discussion prompted us to consider how we can bridge these gaps in our own organisations.
• Exploring The Digital Solutions Lab: Between sessions, we engaged with innovative technology demonstrations that showcased how digital transformation is occurring across various sectors. As NHS Knowledge and Library Services (KLS) professionals, we found it interesting to see applications of technology beyond healthcare.
• AI use cases across the sector: Valuable insights were gained from a panel reflecting on the use of AI in public libraries, the legal sector, and the NHS.

AI is being used as an office junior, performing some of the heavy lifting in tasks such as summarisation and generating marketing copy; “be curious with AI, but be careful” was the overriding message from the session.

• Lego Robotics Coding Lab/ Makerspaces: Two fun and interactive session that illustrated creative uses of technology in educational settings, showcasing how such initiatives can inspire engagement in our libraries. We left with ideas on how this could be used to support the wellbeing offer within our service and some tips on resources to explore. We’ll be using some of this new knowledge to support future business cases for funding.
• Blending Digital and Physical Spaces:  The integration of digital and physical environments provided valuable insights into overcoming space constraints many NHS libraries face. Practical solutions were discussed that could be adapted to our context.

An interesting day offering networking opportunities and fresh ideas that we can incorporate into future projects and discussions with stakeholders. We left with new digital terminology to hopefully integrate into our key documents and strategies moving forward.