NZICC to host World Library and Information Congress in 2020

Auckland has secured the bid to host the world’s most significant library and information congress in 2020, marking the first time in nearly 40 years that the flagship annual congress of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) will be held in the Pacific region.

The World Library and Information Congress will be held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) from 28th July to 5th August 2020 and is expected to attract more than 3,000 information sector managers and professionals from across the global community.

National Librarian Bill Macnaught says New Zealand’s bicultural partnership approach and commitment to indigenous knowledge helped Auckland’s bid stand out from other destinations.

He explained “the world congress represents an extraordinary opportunity for LIANZA and New Zealand to showcase our innovative library and information sector, and celebrate the valuable role libraries, librarians and information professionals have in our society.”

Auckland has one of the largest library networks in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting around 12 million visits a year, along with an increasing number of people utilising the network’s digital services.

Auckland Convention Bureau Head Anna Hayward added “this is a fantastic result for Auckland and New Zealand, and thanks to the scale of NZICC means we can accommodate the large numbers of delegates which usually attend the annual World Library and Information Congress.”

Currently undergoing a $700 million upgrade that includes a new five-star hotel and the grand exhibition hall, the expanded NZICC is due to open late next year and host its first huge major conferences in 2020.

Image: Artist's impression of the completed NZICC.