Abstract
This issue of IFLA Journal presents a diverse collection of research articles that underscore the vital roles libraries play in promoting sustainable development, advancing information literacy and fostering community engagement. For this editorial, the brief descriptions of the articles are organized into three themes: libraries as catalysts for sustainable development, libraries and the advancement of information literacy and libraries as community hubs for engagement and collaboration. Each theme highlights the critical contributions of libraries to societal progress and resilience, long-standing themes of IFLA Journal.
Libraries as catalysts for sustainable development
In the past several years, scholarship on the role of libraries in promoting sustainability has increased considerably. From important work that documents the ways in which libraries globally contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to national level case studies on green practices in libraries, IFLA Journal has contributed to this wider conversation, and this issue continues this dialogue (Connaway et al., 2023; Missingham, 2024; Mwanzu et al., 2023). The current issue demonstrates how academic libraries in South Africa are leveraging community engagement to advance the SDGs, specifically Goals 8 and 11. Also, Bangani (2024) emphasizes how these libraries employ diverse student assistants and preserve local culture through preservation and digitization efforts. Similarly, Devi et al. (2024) take a broad view by reviewing IFLA's initiatives in mobilizing libraries worldwide to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, highlighting the importance of strong librarianship and community involvement. In Nigeria, Adeyemi et al. (2024) explore green library practices, recommending eco-friendly initiatives to reduce carbon footprints and enhance sustainability.
Libraries and the advancement of information literacy
As research on information literacy has grown to include new forms of literacy and growing social challenges like misinformation, IFLA Journal has also seen work within this theme advance significantly. From assessing health information literacy among rural populations to navigating the complexities of scientific literature, the journal continues to see novel approaches to both imparting information literacy skills on readers and the urgent need for literate citizens within societies (Kassim and Ndumbaro, 2022; Mercer et al., 2022). Within this issue, the evolution of data literacy research is mapped by Nwagwu (2024), who underscores the pivotal role libraries play in nurturing data literacy skills. Son (2024) examines the contributions of South Korean volunteer librarians to media and information literacy education in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting the need for skilled personnel and resources. Islam et al. (2024) investigate the impact of information literacy on managing the COVID-19 infodemic, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing misinformation among university students. Akter and Ahmed (2024) assess the impact of information literacy training in Bangladesh, showing significant improvements in students’ skills post-training. Wann et al. (2024) explore the link between information literacy and farmers’ decision-making processes, emphasizing the potential of improving information literacy to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Libraries as community hubs for engagement and collaboration
Various forms of community engagement have long been central to the field and to library and information science (LIS) literature. Ranging from concepts such as umbutu in South Africa to cultural heritage preservation in Thailand, the importance of engagement and contextual knowledge in serving communities is an important and ongoing narrative within the journal (Bangani and Dube, 2023; Jarusawat and Cox, 2023). New contributions to this scholarship include a focus on the need for effective collaboration between library and information science scholars and practitioners in Bangladesh (Roy and Habib, 2024) through solutions to enhance professional growth and library services. In addition, Kisilowska-Szurminska et al. (2024) explore the shift from collections to connections in libraries, archives and museums, highlighting the importance of partnerships within these sectors. Lee (2024) analyzes the transformation of elementary school libraries into joint-use spaces, emphasizing community involvement and educational equity. Flores and Morales (2024) examine American Corners in Mindanao, Philippines, focusing on interreligious dialogue and peace-building through strategic partnerships. Bamgbose et al. (2024) identify organizational and technological factors affecting service delivery in digital repositories, emphasizing the importance of standardized policies and technological standards. Alam et al. (2024) investigate individual differences in service quality of university libraries, highlighting variations across demographic groups.
Conclusion
The articles in this issue of the IFLA Journal collectively illustrate the multifaceted roles of libraries in advancing societal goals, enhancing information literacy and fostering inclusivity and collaboration within institutions and across communities. As libraries continue to adapt to global challenges, their commitment to innovation, sustainability and community engagement remains essential in shaping a more informed and equitable world. As made clear by these articles, there is still much work to be done to advance these ambitions of the LIS professions.