10th Annual Vancouver Library Staff Conference (VILSC) – Call For Proposals
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
On Friday, May 8, 2026, the University of Victoria Libraries, Camosun College Library, and the Greater Victoria Public Library will co-host the 10th Vancouver Island Library Staff Conference (VILSC) at the University of Victoria. The one-day conference is free and open to all those working in libraries and archives on Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and Powell River, who want to learn from each other and connect through the sharing of knowledge and ideas.
2026 CONFERENCE THEME: A Decade of VILSC: Reflecting, Envisioning, Enacting
VILSC 2026 invites proposals for presentations on any area of work related to our sector. Proposals are especially encouraged on the theme of “A Decade of VILSC: Reflecting, Envisioning, Enacting.” The Vancouver Island Library Staff Conference launched in 2015 with the theme “Our Island Is a Library”. Over the last ten years thousands have gathered from all across Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and Powell River to share knowledge, connect with colleagues, and celebrate the work of libraries and archives.
At this year’s VILSC, we invite contributors to reflect on the past, present, and future of their work. How have our libraries and the social, political, cultural, economic, and technological contexts in which they operate changed in the last ten years? How do we forecast changes to come in the next ten and beyond? And how do we enact the changes we want to see? Topics might include, but are by no means limited to:
- Reflections on previous presentations at VILSC (and, if applicable, updates on ongoing projects)
- Mentoring presentations
- Envisioning what the next ten years of libraries and archives will look like
- What projects or initiatives have you enacted (or want to enact) that are future-focussed?
- What can we learn from any successes or failures of the past ten years?
VILSC is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment. We encourage proposals that:
- Highlight diverse voices, perspectives, and lived experiences
- Address equity and accessibility in library services and workplaces
- Explore decolonization, Indigenous knowledge systems, and reconciliation in library practice
- Challenge systemic barriers and imagine more just futures for our communities
Proposals from presenters of all backgrounds, identities, and career stages are welcome. We especially encourage submissions from first-time presenters, collaborative teams, and proposals from our library community on any relevant topic of interest.
Deadline for proposals: Friday, February 27, 2026