2nd ICAL-2013: Conference Scope

Cloud computing has generated much interest recently and developments in this space have revolutionized the way computing infrastructure is used. Instead of installing packaged software applications on their computers, people and businesses will use their web browsers to access a wide range of “cloud services” available on-demand over the Internet. Its success has seen a proliferation in the number of applications which have leveraged various cloud platforms to applications such as Gmail, Wikipedia, Flickr or Twitter on the Web.


Cloud computing is promising innovative uses to serve library needs as well.


Predictions are that within five years, all library collections, systems, and services will be driven into the cloud. Inspired by the latest advances in virtualized computing resources on the global network, the 2nd International Conference on Academic Libraries, ICAL-2013 seeks to explore how cloud computing could be applied for library applications, in particular for moving libraries to the Web. Being a new and emerging area of interest to library and information professionals, the Conference will focus on academic library services through cloud computing. In addition, the Conference will seek to explore cloud computing for converting ICAL-2009 roadmap into an action plan for repositioning academic libraries into next generation libraries.


The conference offers an international platform to all stakeholders in the academic enterprise to network and debate on the theme and topics of the conference.

Conference Background

ICAL-2009 had identified Globalizing Academic Libraries as the Vision - 2020 for academic libraries with the ultimate aim to repositioning them into next generation libraries.


ICAL-2009 in its outcome had outlined a roadmap for change management in academic libraries and identified strategic areas for the purpose. These include

  • Moving libraries to the Web to encourage library collaboration
  • Sourcing ICT applications and services on the Internet as a service if it is not feasible for libraries to own them
  • Policies, programmes, and systems for ICT integration at library level and consortium level
  • New and qualitative dimensions to academic library services
  • Strategic and academic roles for libraries and librarians that add value to academic enterprise
  • New digital resources that libraries should undertake to emerge as knowledge centres
  • Standards for qualitative performance in library services
  • International collaboration on all library fronts
  • Talent development in priority areas of interest to libraries; and
  • Change management strategies

Conference Objectives

  • Cloud computing solutions for managing library functionalities and services over the Internet
  • Cloud computing approach for globalizing academic libraries
  • Systems and programs that facilitate implementation of cloud computing solutions
  • Systems and programs that facilitate adding new dimensions to academic library services
  • Systems and programs that facilitate collaborative approach to library education, training and research
  • Policy changes and strategies for program implementation