Next Library is coming to State Library

Next Library, an international gathering of forward-thinking library professionals, innovators and decision-makers will make its Australian debut at State Library of Queensland next year.

Created by Aarhus Public Libraries in 2009, Next Library is held every two years in Denmark and has also hosted international satellite events in Chicago and Berlin. The next stop in their international program will be Brisbane.

Next Library is for people who are pushing boundaries and making changes that support 21st century learning. It has a community that includes over 1,200 library leaders and innovators representing 94 countries.

Next Library invites global participants with diverse experiences to share and develop new thinking about the practices of public libraries. It is an incubator of emerging ideas and fosters learning through a collaborative and interactive culture.

In Australia, Next Library aims to encourage participants to become active game changers and transformers of library services and facilities for their communities.

“State Library is excited to have the opportunity to work with Aarhus Public Libraries, a recognised world class innovator, to deliver the Next Library satellite meeting in 2020 in Brisbane. Aarhus Public Libraries is acknowledged internationally for its outstanding work in imagining, planning and delivering outstanding public library services,” said Vicki McDonald, State Librarian and Chief Executive Officer

“Aarhus Public Libraries are recognised worldwide for their ability to be in front of library development. Our libraries and the Next Library brand have become identical with innovation and development. It is a brand that gathers the best brains from all over the world to discuss how libraries can continue to improve their services to the public,” said Alderman for Culture and Citizens’ Services, Rabih Azad-Ahmad.

Ms McDonald said the satellite meeting in 2020 also allows State Library to take a leadership role in exploring and implementing innovative programming in libraries globally.
"Hosting the Next Library satellite meeting in Brisbane will enable more Australians to participate in this gathering of international professionals. It will also allow State Library to showcase the amazing work of Queensland and Australian public libraries to international colleagues,” said Vicki McDonald.

Watch our website and social media for more information on how you can participate in this exciting opportunity in 2020!