On September 15–19, 2026, Svitlana Tsymbaliuk, Director of the Scientific Library of the State Tax University, took part in the 16th Lviv International Library Forum, organized by the NGO «Ukrainian Library Association». During these days, the Scientific Library of Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, which hosted the event, became a platform for exchanging ideas, finding answers to modern challenges, and shaping a shared vision for our tomorrow.

This year's forum theme – «Trajectories of the Future. Library in the Conditions of New Normals» – was extremely timely and relevant. Operating in a hybrid format, the forum brought together hundreds of specialists from across the country and the world to discuss how libraries can not only adapt to changes, but also become drivers of transformation, centers of resilience, support, and innovation.

The forum program focused on the digitalization of librarianship, enhancing media literacy, implementing European standards, and protecting national heritage.

On the second day of the forum, a round table titled «Digital Transformation of Ukraine and the Role of Libraries in the New Normal» took place, becoming the true conceptual and emotional highlight of the day.

It was emphasized that today a library is far more than just rows of bookshelves. It has evolved into a fully functional digital hub, a co-working space, and a center for adaptation and support for citizens during challenging times.

A speech by Lina Zgurska, Lead Specialist of the Digital Education Project Implementation Department at the Ministry of Digital Transformation, resonated with particular strength. She outlined key digital projects, current vectors, and prospective development plans unfolding at the intersection of digital innovations, artificial intelligence, robotics, and future technologies.

Key Takeaways and Thought-Provoking Insights:

• Libraries as Drivers of Digital Literacy: Librarians are often the first mentors helping citizens master digital services, the Diia.Education platform, and the basics of cyber hygiene.
• Artificial Intelligence and New Technologies: As the world rapidly changes, the library space must integrate AI tools, robotics, and modern solutions into daily practices to remain relevant to youth and professionals.
• The Phenomenon of the «New Normal»: Working, evolving, educating, and digitalizing society amid constant uncertainty is a challenge that Ukrainian libraries meet with remarkable resilience.

The third day of the Library Forum was held in an atmosphere of deep meanings, international solidarity, and vibrant cultural discoveries.

The central event of the day was a panel discussion on: «Libraries and Democracy: Opportunities, Responsibilities, and Compromises». Representatives of over 20 foreign libraries – both academic and public – joined the open dialogue. Participants discussed the importance of library institutions in preserving freedom of speech, shaping citizens' critical thinking, and countering disinformation in the modern world.

A special highlight of the day was the presentation of a unique biographical album featuring the works of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis – an outstanding Lithuanian painter, composer, and steadfast fighter for Lithuania's independence from the Russian Empire.

The publication was personally presented by Beatričė Beliavtsev, a translator from Lithuanian and Executive Secretary of the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Lithuania in Lviv. The album reflects the rich life and creative journey of the artist, whose social and political stance and love for his homeland permeate every canvas and musical composition.

Thanks to the philanthropic support of Ukrainians from the «Zodiak» company currently working in Lithuania, a copy of the «Painting» album was presented as a gift to every participating library. We express our sincere gratitude to the organizers and sponsors for the opportunity to enrich our collections with this monumental study and to bring the heritage of the prominent Lithuanian figure to the faculty and students of STU!

The final day proved to be highly technological and futuristic, serving as a fitting conclusion to the forum.

The main focus of discussions was directed toward the digital future, touching upon neural networks and AI technologies in librarianship.

The world is changing at a breathtaking speed, and libraries are not staying behind. Together with leading experts, practitioners, and colleagues, we searched for answers to key questions:

• How can AI assist in automating routine processes, systematizing large volumes of data, and modernizing search engines?
• Where is the line between neural network assistance and preserving the unique human expertise of a librarian?
• How can library and information science education adapt to the new challenges of digitalization and protect copyright in the era of generative content?

Artificial intelligence for a modern library is not a threat, but a powerful tool that opens new horizons for readers, researchers, and the entire community. Libraries are evolving beyond physical book spaces into digital hubs of the future.

We thank everyone who joined the Forum both offline and online, shared experience, discussed, and inspired! Implementation of new knowledge into practice lies ahead.

Together, we build the future today!

Find more information about the conference on the official Facebook pages of the Scientific Library of STU.