Call For Papers

The 10th Rizal Library International Conference (RLIC) will be held on October 7–9, 2026 at the Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines.

With the theme “RLIC @10: Reimagining Libraries with Innovation and Culture, Honoring Heritage, Shaping Intelligent Futures,” the conference invites library professionals, educators, and researchers to reflect and look ahead. It explores how libraries can embrace technology while staying rooted in cultural identity and human values.

The theme highlights the balance between preserving heritage and driving innovation to create inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready library environments. Libraries are envisioned as stewards of knowledge and dynamic spaces that connect tradition with emerging technologies for generations to come.

The main objective of the #10thRLIC is to foster dialogue and collaboration on how libraries can integrate innovation and cultural heritage to shape intelligent, inclusive, and future-ready communities.

We welcome papers on the following topics:

Sub-theme 1: Libraries as Human-Centered Wellness Hubs

This sub-theme explores the human dimension of librarianship. It emphasizes empathy, care, and well-being in library services. Discussions include how libraries can function as wellness hubs that support emotional, mental, and social health while preserving the human touch in a digital age.

Sub-theme 2: Sustainability and Smart Libraries

This sub-theme focuses on the intersection of libraries and sustainability. It highlights the role of libraries in advancing the United Nations Development Goals (SDGs) and encourages strategies for building eco-conscious, resilient, and adaptive library systems.

Sub-theme 3: Digital Hygiene and Information Integrity

This sub-theme addresses ethical and responsible digital practices in library environments. Topics may include data privacy, digital wellness, combating misinformation, and promoting healthy digital behaviors among users and professionals.

Sub-theme 4: Cultural Responsiveness and Inclusive Access

This sub-theme underscores the importance of inclusive and culturally responsive library practices. It calls for research and initiatives that promote equitable access, representation, and participation, ensuring that libraries reflect and respect the diversity of the communities they serve.

Sub-theme 5: Cultural Promotion and Community Engagement

This sub-theme highlights libraries as active agents of cultural preservation and promotion. It focuses on programs, partnerships, and outreach efforts that engage communities in heritage conservation, cultural learning, and creative expression.

Sub-theme 6: AI and the Preservation of Historical Memory

This sub-theme explores the role of artificial intelligence in preserving, interpreting, and reconstructing historical memory. It invites critical reflection on how AI can support heritage documentation and access while maintaining authenticity, accuracy, and ethical standards.

Sub-theme 7: Ethics, National Identity, and Technology

This sub-theme examines the intersections of ethics, national identity, and technological advancement in librarianship. It seeks analyses of how libraries navigate moral responsibility, cultural sovereignty, and identity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Paper proposals must adhere to the following format:

1. Written in English

2. Overview of the paper (maximum of 1 page)

3. Abstract (maximum of 250 words, excluding the short description of the authors; must include 3-5 keywords)

4. Word format (Times New Roman, font size 11, single space, APA citation style)

5. Curriculum vitae with photo (indicate achievements and/or publications within the last 5 years)

All proposals should be emailed to conference.rl.ls@ateneo.edu with the subject line and file name: [Paper Proposal_10thRLIC_ Surname of Main Author]

Download the template here: https://bit.ly/10RLICAbstractFormat

Deadline for submission of proposals: May 7, 2026

For more information, you may contact us at conference.rl.ls@ateneo.edu

Let’s honor our heritage and navigate the future together. 

Join the discussion with #10thRLIC!