Community Is the Heartbeat of Every Successful Knowledge Incubator

Abstract

This interview presents Vicki McDonald’s reflections on her leadership of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and her views on the future of libraries and librarianship. She discusses the priorities of her 2023–2025 IFLA presidency under the theme “Stronger Together,” particularly strengthening trust, governance, communication with members, and the collective professional voice of libraries, while also addressing the challenge of balancing the presidency of an international volunteer federation with her professional responsibilities.   The interview explores how international experiences have shaped her understanding of librarianship, including visits to the Middle East and the United Arab Emirates and her experiences at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, House of Wisdom, and the centenary celebrations of Sharjah Public Libraries. It also reflects on her career across public, academic, and state libraries and emphasizes the value of professional collaboration, shared expertise, and leadership development.   A major part of the interview considers the future of libraries in the context of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. McDonald identifies opportunities for service personalization, workflow efficiency, broader access to digitized collections, and digital inclusion, while stressing the ethical responsibilities of libraries and their role in helping communities navigate misinformation and disinformation. The interview concludes that libraries remain relevant when they are closely aligned with community needs, invest in their staff, communicate effectively, collaborate internationally, and encourage emerging librarians to embrace adaptability, new experiences, and informed risk-taking.